They’re constantly on the prowl: cold calling scammers claiming to be from “Windows Tech Support”, who in reality have the nefarious aim of downloading spyware and/or charging you for their assistance while they are remotely connected (or, worse still, both).

It’s one of the biggest scams on the web, and it still goes on. The fact that it persists strongly suggests that the scam still works, and with VOIP offering a low cost overhead for endless cold calling, these characters have the means to call as many people as they can fit into a working day.

But let’s not be charitable. This isn’t work, but crime. It’s theft, pure and simple.

Receiving The Call

I actually received two calls from the “Windows Tech Support” scammers.

The first, just after lunch, caught me at a bad time. Snowed under with work, I laconically burst out laughing, and didn’t stop until the caller hung up. Sadly, they didn’t get the hint.

Six hours later came another call. Perhaps the same lady, I don’t know as I didn’t take the first caller’s name. This one, despite her strong Indian accent, was called Rachel, one of the most English names you will find. Of course, this is part of the tactic, to present a “civilized” veneer of legitimacy for what is, surely at the back of most people’s mind, a surprising call.

Because the call itself is incredulous, it suggests, through the script that the cold calling scammers stick to very closely, that Microsoft can detect whether or not your compute has an “infection”. They’re clear on this too, the callers. This isn’t a call about viruses, as your computer’s anti-virus software can handle those. No, this is all about “infections”, some loose reference to malware.

Which, incidentally, is what they’re peddling.

The Smooth, Polite Tech Support “Expert”

Now, I just happened to be rolling three computers on the day of the call. My usual Surface Pro, my Raspberry Pi and my Toshiba laptop, running Linux Mint. This scam is designed to be used on Windows computers only, and as you may well know, Linux security issues and viruses are rare.

You can probably see where this is going…

With Linux Mint booted up right in front of me, I couldn’t help myself but make an example of these people. So I explained to “Rachel” how I was unable to make the Run box appear when pressing the Windows key and R. Opening the Run box is a key strategy of the scam, designed to show you “errors” which are items found in the Security view log in Event Viewer, a component of Windows. As I was unable to open Run and enter the eventvwr.exe command, I was passed onto “Jonathan”…

As you can hear in the recording above from my YouTube page, the “expert” I was handed over to basically continues the script with a little more authority, the initial caller’s pleasant voice no doubt intended to “soften up” the victims.

Yes, victims, because that is what we are. Whether we’re scammed or successfully spot this nonsense before it goes too far, anyone subjected to it is a victim of attempted fraud.

Eventually, after the Run box fails to open (remember, I was using Linux Mint) “Jonathan” asks me to visit a website, support24.6te.net. For obvious reasons we’re not linking to it, but if we check the WhoIs result, it would seem that the website is hosted as a subdomain of an ISP or other free web host. Inspection of the webpage reveals an unsophisticated single HTML file with embedded CSS. Not exactly a professional outfit; rather the classic signs of a scam.

Now, I took “Jonathan” as far as I could before ultimately getting bored, realising I’d wasted around 25 minutes of their time and making my Linux reveal at the end. But what you should do is hang up your phone, the moment you hear that someone calling you out of the blue is attempting to repair your PC. Even if you *have* requested some telephone support from your PC vendor or work IT, verify their identity before proceeding.

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pjottr eschkov

May 9, 2019 at 12:00 pm

Nice, the first time they called me, on my land-phone, I said "sir, my computers run on Linux operating systems. He hang up. The next time I did not have a Linux PC or a virtual windows running so i sort of followed the instructions (a female this time) and when we got to the point where I opened eventvwr I found that it was enough. I told her I had recorded the call en said I was not going to fall for her scam. Then she started swearing. Called me a F@#&*!G idiot. She than hang up.
That was about a year ago and just today I got the same call. I replied "oh not the same scam" and she hang up. I seems like they won't give up
Greetz

Hey - hey, everyone! My name is Michael and I wanted to help out with a couple of points that may be helpful in our war against "The Microsoft Tech/IT Dude" Scam. Well, all scams but you catch me. Several years ago, back when pterodactyls stealing our floppy disks was our biggest problem and Windows98 had only been out for a few months, I called Microsoft Customer Service and Support because while I was a slightly-better-than-average PC user back then and I had tried, read, and re-read everything...I was stumped. Well...I uhhh, I somehow, in all my reading, never saw the Rates for Customer Support. Being Microsoft, it had an Automated Recorded Voice System that was minimal-by-today's-tech standards, but kick ass back then! "If you have a touch-tone, press 1. Otherwise...," well, you know. So I finally navigated to what seemed like the best option, it assured me in a pleasant manner that the $165/hour rate would not begin until... ONE HUN-NUN-NUN?! I have never hung up a phone so dang fast. A true, and funny-now- story, but my point is if it was over $150/hour 21 years ago, then WHY would ol' Billions Billy be calling US, unless it was about National Security or equivalent? Right? I know Bill is just...make-your-head-spin rich, and I am sure he is charitable to some extent but he is not going to spend it like that.
The other thing is that if that guy that swore at the lady who got angry at her laughter was 1. Here in the USA (and likely elsewhere but I am only sure of the US laws on this subject), and,
2. Could be traced and caught, he would have been in sooo much trouble. HE called HER, and so technically, by proxy...sort of... is a Guest in her home and so Freedom of Speech is only on the receiving side of the call. She can let loose on the guy... nothing. But a lady had gotten a call from her legitimate phone company (of all places) but he'd left a message on her answering machine. Well, in the background, someone else yelled out, "FU**!!" and it truly offended her. Well, court, lawsuit, etc. and the results? She was awarded $600,000 for emotional trauma.
But the best part of all of this, to me, at least, is that WE have total freedom to say...well, almost anything. I would like to strongly recommend that you avoid any uhh, terror - inducing or sounding words. But off the main subject as I close, but on the other subject of being careful about what you do/say/etc., please everyone: Do NOT call out to your friend, Jack especially in an airport : "HI, JACK!"
Peace and Love to all of you and remember that not just Microsoft, but all banks, Credit Companies, even utilities are ALL expressly forbidden from ASKING for ANY sensitive information if THEY are the ones who Called YOU. There ARE cyber-terrorists (that IS what they are) who can, just with a First Name and a Phone Number ONLY, who can find out information about you that YOU don't even know. How about a picture of you when you were out at lunch with your fiancée last Saturday night?
Take care!
Michael C

"Ethan", would not believe me when I told him he wasn't part of the windows tech support team. He was adamant, even (and I'd guess for a few seconds afterwards) when I said no you're not as I pushed the red button to end the call.
Had 3 calls from the same number. 02035140530. Supposedly London area.
Block it now people save the aggro later.

I was just called by 'Windows Tech Support'. Surprisingly the callers id read Fannie Mae. The guy on the other line told me that foreign entities were attempting to access my computer. Since I know windows does not have the time nor the inclination to keep up with these matters and call to warn me I knew it was a scam but wanted to see how far it would go before they would ask for personal information. After taking me to the command prompt to show me how many foreign entities were connecting with my computer, he switched me to his supervisor. I hung up. He called back. I pretended not to be able to hear and hung up again. they called back. finally I told them that I would not allow them to connect to my computer since my husband is an IT guy and would take care of the problem. He still insisted he needed to walk my husband though the process so I got his name, which was Jack myers, and his phone number 855-399-1001, and said I will have him call back when he gets home. I have not tried to call this number but don't waste your time on these people.

I just received a similar call from a sub continent person by the name of Harry. He insisted that I have a windows machines and I told him I only have Linux. He talked for several minutes and then hung-up. He then called back about 5 minutes later and started the con all over again. He tried to convince me he was in Texas USA, he must be on the very late shift because Texas local time was about 2300hrs. While these calls can be very annoying, they can provide light entertainment and a few laughs

I have received “Unknown” calls twice, answering the last, expecting a call from a government agency about a tax question. (I’m in Oregon, the 503 area code.).
This “Microsoft Tech” said my computer isn’t accepting updates. I wasn’t at my computer, so “Jason P.” Is calling back this evening. I know enough about computers, having taught CS for a few years, and worked for a university IT Dept., so when he calls this evening, I’ll probably tell him I checked updates and they’re current, just to see what he says. Then I’ll hang up...

Just got a call from a guy with heavy accent claiming to be with "Windows Help and Support Department" in Redmond, WA, even though the phone number was a New York City area code. He told me my computer was being hacked. Yeah, right!

The "Microsoft Tech Support" scam is so well known, I can't believe it's gone on this long.
Suggested responses when you get this call:
1) My computer, you say. Well, what is my IP address?
2) What is Microsoft? Never heard of this Windows operating system.
3) We don't own a computer.
4) We own 20 computers. Which one do you mean "has a little problem"?
5) I work for Microsoft and I'm Bill Gates nephew/niece. I've never heard of you.
By the way, if you want to turn the tables and have fun at their expense, the number is:
800.604.4506
Have a Nice Day !!
Except for scammers.
They can all go to hell.

I must have been ahead of the curve--I got taken back on 9/15/14 by Ask Tech Hotline, hired by Microsoft because they were "overwhelmed by problems." I was smart enough to buy a prepaid card to pay them $119, so they didn't get any info. Some time later they insisted on refunding my money because the problem wasn't completely solved. But they were hampered by some law that prevented them from sending less than $1000 into the US through Western Union, so the deal was that I should send them $800 and keep the $1K--the extra was a bonus for my trouble! Of course I refused and hung up...but for 3 years they have been calling me at least once a month to demand the right to "repay me" for the unsuccessful service! Whenever I hear that Indian accent I hang up, but it stresses me out all day!

I am conducting research about this scam for an Investigative feature I've been working on. I am aware that you posted this comment a year ago, but I just wanted to ask if you're still receiving their calls? And is a person with an Indian accent behind the call every single time?

Just had another one of these calls. Came up on the phone as "Out of Area" with no number. Red flag #1. It was a guy with an Indian/Pakistani accent who called himself John Williams, calling from Microsoft Windows tech support. When I challenged him on that, he tried a number of fakes to try to get past me - gave me my computer's "security license number," created an IP address, etc. He claimed that my computer was "recently infected." I challenged him to be more specific - if you're from Windows tech support and have access to the fact that my computer is "infected," tell me the exact date and time that it became infected. His only response was "within the last couple days." Next he tried to convince me he was legit by giving me the name and address I had "registered with Microsoft." It was obvious that he was using WhitePages or some other people finder because it had the same error in my name as I've found on those sites (incorrect spelling of my first name and incorrect middle initial) and the address was for the house we sold two years ago. I finally got tired of the charade, cursed him out, and hung up. I just wish we still had a phone with cradle for the receiver - it was so much more satisfying to slam those down back in the day. :-)

Yes, and I routed his machine to my honey pot. It was gratifying to hear him scream when his machine wiped out. This was back when you could slam the heads in the hard drive and destroy a PC. I had about 20 viruses loaded and they where "spring loaded" to download and execute when the folder was opened.

I have been called at least 30 times by this number:
1-208-766-2529 who claiming to be from Windows technical support.
Told them Windows would never call, and I have the geeksquad to help me!
Well they are still calling, found out the call came from Malad City, Idaho?

I feel great that I never gotten any of these call scams, but if I do get them, I'll just fire up a virtual machine, play along with them to the point where I let them into my VM remotely, and then run the Memz virus and left them to deal with it. Alternatively, I can just simply pretend that I can't speak English, by responding to their questions/instructions in Thai. Really wonder how they'll react when they've caught a victim that can't speak English...

I've worked in telecom my whole life so when someone called my 93 yr old Mom's house at 8:05am (before allowed start time of telemarketers) I knew something was up. I answered 255.874.8932 out of curiosity and the guy said the usual, I'm from Windows and your Dad's computer shows potential hacker activity. I immed knew where this was going and started chuckling to myself, at which point he exploded with "Why you are laughing, you f*cking bitch!" and hung up on me.

I continued laughing, although quite a bit harder by that point. Except for the fact this guy was clearly targeting an elderly person first thing in the morning. GROSS!!!!!

P.S. The call center sounds in the background, I'm quite sure, are faked. As his boss would likely have had an issue with his demeanor with the customer. ;~)

I get at least a call every few weeks from fake scams claiming to be Microsoft technical support, today I got 3!! I know it's a scam and I generally don't answer the calls but I decided to answer and pretend to be gullible to see what their exact plan entailed. He asked me to open the run window and type in cmdcnt...it was at this point when my mom, clearly thinking I'm a moron, had been listening and began yelling don't do it and interrupting the call when I already knew I wasn't going to do anything I was simply curious as to the steps. I point blank asked, still faking being gullible,"are you going to remote access my computer to help me remove the bad corrupt files?" And he said no, but that confused me since I asked it like I wanted him to do it, I even said oh I had an issue installing Norton a few years back and they did a remote assistance to help me, which is true lol. Anyway, the call got disconnected before I got any further and I was in the car to go shopping with my mom when he called back. The first call came up a Georgia number, the 2nd call was from Canada but it was the same guy lol, so dumb. At this point I was told the call disconnected accidentally and to continue where we left off. I was in a car and instead of my previous plan of writing down his instructions just to see what he was going to ask me to do, I was out and not able to so I straight up explained that Microsoft doesn't call people when you get a virus and that I'm not an idiot. Normally at this point they hang up on you but I think he bought my initial gullible act and had hope he could talk me into doing it and he began explaining it wasn't a scam, that he can tell me my computer license number to prove he was legit but then never did, he just went back to instructing me and I said, I can just call Microsoft tech support to confirm this then? At this point he hung up.

Just now, at 8pm, I accidentally answered another call from the scam. Different guy, same script. I'm tired and cranky and said that is weird my mom works for Microsoft and tech support doesn't call people for this. He hung up. The daily calls I get from this scam and another scam where they claim my credit card payments have been so peachy in the last 12 months that they are lowering my interest rates. That one is annoying, I don't even own a credit card.
I never give my number out or go to weird unsafe Internet sites but somehow these scammer have me at the top of their call list, despite the fact that 90% of the time I don't answer and when I do I either waste their time by pretending to buy their Initial con and then reveal, once their little black hearts get excited, that I am not a moron or I straight out say I know it's a scam. My favorite scam call is when they tried to tell me I'd won $100 gift card usable at a long list of stores and only need to pay $5 to cover shipping. Do people actually believe these people? I guess the biggest mystery to me is their bank of phone numbers they use. None of these numbers are ever working numbers when you call it back (I had a few times I was expecting out of state calls and I'd missed it and needed to be sure it wasn't a actual call) these numbers either say they've been disconnected or are a magic jack number that has not been setup yet which makes me wonder how they are able to use a phone number that is owned but not activated or claims to be disconnected.

I had "Windows Tech support" call twice telling me that my IP is being used for something or other. The fact that the caller was most likely someone from India was not an issue, since I've worked with India based Dell tech people. The first problem was that the call did not appear to originate from Microsoft (out of curiosity I called the number later- it was disconnected or no longer in service); the second problem was that as far as I know Microsoft doesn't call people up when there is a problem originating from a Windows desktop. If they did that, Microsoft would be able to single-handedly solve global unemployment. I ask them what they thought my my IP was. The scammer came up with an IP address string which, obviously isn't mine. When presented with "I'm sorry, that's not my IP address, you must have the wrong number," the conversation comes to an end. That was the first call. the second time I just said was busy and hung up.

I like to have a little fun with these guys. So far, I've told them that a) I'm still using MS-DOS 2.0, b) my computer is a Babbage Difference Engine, c) I'm using Linux. I've also had them on the line for 15 minutes talking them through the boot-up procedure of my imaginary steampunk-esque old-school computer: "Yes, I just have to start the ignition sequence...", "the valves are just warming up...", "I just need to charge the capacitators..." etc. - when I finally got bored I just asked if he really didn't know that I was just toying with him... he hung-up.

Thing is, as far as I'm concerned, these guys are criminals, pure & simple. So, maybe I'll just try to say the most offensive, threatening, aggressive thing I can come up with. Why not? They're breaking the law and scamming hard-working and/or vulnerable people out of their money - all standards of common decency can go out the window when dealing with them.

Got multiple calls from a "Windows" scammer like this today (11/26/2016) and I gave the guy with an Indian accent a big helping of verbal abuse about his obvious scam operation. He hung up. Four more calls about once an hour from the same number since then from same number (ignored all) this evening, now it's harassment! If this goes on, I'm unplugging my phone. Going to bed soon!

Last year, I was at my grandparents house studying and on my laptop when suddenly their house phone rings.
I was some Indian dude claiming to be Windows tech telling me my computer had a virus. Told him there wasn't a laptop in the house and i hung up. He called again insisting there was a laptop in the house and so i admitted that i did have my laptop. He told me to get on my laptop and i refused, he got really frustrated. He kept insisting and so i said "nah, ill just take it to geek squad", to which he replied "they suck." Told him if my computer dies that I'll just buy another one, MAN HE WAS PISSED! He ban raising his voice at me, almost screaming, so i hung up. Called me back 2 sec later, he tried to apologize, told him if he called again i was going to cut his balls off.

Just had a call from my 14yo son who is back at the family home on 1/2 term break while I'm at work. He took a call from an Indian sounding gentleman claiming to be from our ISP's tech department. After the callers initial introduction he got him as far as opening my laptop and hitting Windows key +R which brought up error log. My son being suspicious told him he wasn't happy when the guy then asked him to type in some further stuff so hangs up. The Indian persists calling time after time insisting the 'issue' needs to be attended to immediately. My son rings me at my office as the house phone rings again for the umpteenth time. I suggest he tells him to call me on my mobile (my mobile is part of bundle from my isp) but not to give him the number. When he says he cant as I need to be in front of laptop I tell my son to ask if he'll call back after 5:30 when I will be home to assist. The Indian insists it cannot wait and that the support centre closes at 5:00pm. My lad hangs up. The house phone rings again. My son quietly pulls the phone cable from the socket. Good lad.

I live in Riverside County, CA. i get a call from this group approximately 4 -times per year. Usually, I am away from my computer working when they call so I just hang up. However, I was in front of my compute a few minutes ago when the scammer called. He gave me the name of his company - I typed it into Google immediately and I clicked on your web site. After reaching your web page, I began reading your comments to him (Sammy). I asked him why every time his company calls I always speak with someone with a South Asian accent. Since he was calling from Texas, I told him there should be someone there who speaks with a Texas drawl - no response. Anyway, I toyed with him for 15-minutes and finally told him to send me an email if he knows all about my computer he should know one of my email addresses. His response was to raise his voice to make me feel there was great urgency and that I should comply with his request. I finally tired of the whole act and told him I was going to hang up. Just a word of caution to all - Do not touch your keyboard while these folks are on the phone with you!!

I just got a call, and put the phone down next to my speaker and finished listening to B-52's Love shack. I dont think he wanted to share the love. sometimes i thank them for personally monitoring my computer out of all the billions of people on Earth, and how special i feel. Many times I start preaching at them, I tell them that God loves them, and he can deliver them from a life of crime if they would ask Jesus to forgive their sin. For some reason they hang up before i can take an offering.

This may be a repeat. I can't tell if I already sent this. I rec'd such a call from Conception. I said I would call him back. He gave me the number 844-334-9105 to call . this was about 10 minutes ago. Peggy

Just got the call about 11:59 am. Same spill. I use my phone and hardly ever pull my computer out. I didn't fall for it. Yes it was an Indian man, couldn't understand him or his name.
2 minutes later, he called back wanting to know what was a good time to call back and talk to the person that uses the computer in the house. I dialed *69 and retrieved this number: 802-381-8376.
I just hung up!

Got the call today from someone with a thick Indian or Pakistani accent. I confronted him and told him to get an honest job and stop scamming people. I asked him how proud is his mom or wife about what he is doing and that he was tarnishing his race reputation...Boy , did I hit a chord with the guy. He told me Americans are killing his people and because of that they are trying to steal as much money as they can from any American. This scam goes beyond fraud, this is a planned attack, not military but financial. I do not know who to call to report it. Then he laughed at me saying they will continue to steal and kill Americans as much as they can.

I tried to copy of preinstalled windows from Microsoft, I type the key and verification failed. I was send to a technician prefix 866 from India. So I gave up.
My strong opinion all these scammers are working for Microsoft, the biggest scammer of them all. Microsoft is contracting technicians from India, try your self if don't believe me.

I love these calls and get about 2-3 per week on our various rollover lines at work. I always use the same tactic with them:
India: "are you at your computer, sir?"
Me: "yes, I was just trying to rub one out"
India: "hit control and 'R'...now what do you see, sir?"
Me: "two chicks sharing a d___...they are really going at it!"

I'll do this every time they ask what I see on the screen. It makes my day. I hope I have a file with this company that reads "people at company X watch a ton of porn".

I just got a call from these "people." I ask if it was a cold virus, flu virus, pnemonia virus, or scam virus. He started to laugh at me. When they tell me to do something, I just tell them that I see Allah and Mohammad sacrificing their sacred cow and sacred goat. They seem not to get that I won't do anything. I enjoy playing with them, just to see how long I can keep them on the phone.

As a former Microsoft phone support guy: Maybe it depends on the support area, but in all departments that I know of, we were NEVER EVER allowed to take over control of the Customer's environment even if the Customer requested it. Just a security precaution. Disobeying the rule could result in immediate dismissal.
So if someone wants to control your computer, watch out :)

My 79 yr old father was called. Luckily he new that it was false because my wife works in IT. He kept the Indian dude on the phone and asked where was- no respone- the got New York - then asked what city and street cause he used to live there- confused the guy- who replied east coast- oops. Finnally my dad put me on. I asked tough questions. Got the "supervisor". I asked where he was and asked for more info as to what is the error code they are receiving. He wouldn't answer then called me a "shit". Not very professional from a Windows employee.

They just called a few minutes ago...AGAIN. I'm in cyber security and have a nasty sense of humor, so pulled up a web page that has small wave files of a person with a heavy Asian accent saying various things from as simple as "hello?" to some very salty language. I put on the speaker phone and let them talk to my computer for a bit, answering their questions as best I can with the "safe" responses, then dig into them with the more colorful ones.
It is beyond hilarious listening to them have an argument with a sound page.

yep- well i fell for it.....happened to me yesterday, totally like you wrote here!! seemingly "nice" person hooked me in-and then a second "manager" came on to take me thru the rest of the cyber violation. Both had names like 'Steve Wilson' and the 2nd was 'John Wilson' and i asked where they were, i said forgive me but that is a pretty american-like name for some one who has a deeep Indian accent, like you...he started to get really agitated...i said 'i think you are scamming me!!!' and that is UNFORTUNATELY afffffter i let them deceivers on my pc. :( i cannot beeeelieve i let them in! I am reeeallly very good about questioning everything in life, but once again, they had quite a convincing method of manipulation....kind of felt like i was under their spell!! sooo anyways, after calling 'John Wilson' out- he started getting angry and maniacal....when i called him out on his name and telling him i ain't paying $h*t- he started to curse me "F*** you!" he said "your computer is now crashed mother f**ker!" they got in there in a short time, and made it so i needed a password to get in. i was on dell tech support for 2 hours after and sick to my stomach all day and night- having felt like i had just been cyber raped. what an ordeal!!!! i hate that i let this happen. anyways they did not get any of my money, and i went to a friend's computer shortly after and changed allll of my passwords. curse these dark souls who do this!!!

After 10 minutes on the 4th such call in 6 months I finally hung up on her and reported the call to the FCC. Next time the call I will do the same, after wasting a lot of their time and getting as much detail as I can.

I have been called several times by "WindowsTech Support" and I use a Mac. I do my best to waste their time - as much as I possibly can - and then eventually tell them I am on a Mac. Today I was called by Vapesecure - no longer claiming to be Windows Tech Support but still claiming that my PC is sending them information on errors and problems that I am having but don't know about. Today I only waisted about 12 minutes - I asked the tech which computer was reporting the issues because I have 4. He ended up hanging up on me.

Hey...most of these Indians believe Cows are sacred...so telling them to hold on a minute because you're about to slaughter the cow you got strung by its feet in the mobile slaughter truck....then BANG!....then describe to them how this cow didn't die as planned and is writhing around suffering, banging its head against the side of the truck...and their god of destruction "Shiva" is seriously pissed and is about to go after the Indian callers....they'll take this seriously and will have nightmares!..

I was hit by this scam several years ago, and fell for it. I lost over $600 in funds to them, and before I even hung up the phone, my credit card info had already been misused. At this point, I get at LEAST one phone call per day from all over the US, and I block all the numbers. Doesn't seem to make a difference. I've tried dozens of ways to get them to stop calling...from hanging up, to asking for company names and phone numbers to faking a police trace on the line to asking for managers to speak with and finally screaming at them. Nothing works. Its the worst scam and still active in June 2016.

I have gotten hundreds of these calls at home. i have tried everything to make them stop. They keep calling because they haven't been able to steal money from me yet. When they tell me they are James Smith, I tell them no you are not you are calling me from India and you are a thief. That usually made them hang up or I did. But then I just bought a whistle. I love it. When they call and tell me who they are I blow the whistle as loud as I can into the phone. They used to call me 5-10 times a day. Now, we are down to one every so often. I hope I damage their hearing for a while anyway.

I'm disabled (MS and Fibromyalgia pain) and so i must spend a lot of time in bed, with nothing to do but watch TV, Netflix and reading as my eyes allow...so I'm having fun being entertained whenever they call me....about 4-8 calls per day....so I'm always acting stupid....hard of hearing and worried sick about my new laptop Dell computer having serious virus I keep getting when I visit porn sites...think I've embarrassed a few of these scammers, describing what these fat lesbians doing,,,they refuse to go along and watch a few of these...i always ask if they'll watch a few of them, i'll let them fix my computer and I've got plenty of money, no family to give it to...got $10 million in the bank and tons of credit cards.

whenever they ask me to press the windows key...i tell them to hold on a minute....having them wait at least 5 mins, i come back to tell them my windows don't have any keys...that they're those old fashioned ones you crank open....these guys fall for this every single time and get frustrated that I'm taking their time by my going to the bedroom or livingroom windows!
And when they try to tell me what numbers/letters to enter, Like TBR14HG...they misuse the actual words...but I get letters and numbers mixed up...and when I repeat the words, I say T-as in tirds....B-as in butt-hole....R- as in rectum and so on...and then transpose numbers when repeating back...only a few have actually caught on to my game playing, and have been angered to the point of calling me ugly names, telling me they're going to rape, then murder me...to that, i invite them, telling them its been a very long time since having my way with a man...and that I've spent time in prison for attempted murder by chopping off a few manly parts, then cooked a big pot of soup...I always ask if they'd like to join me for lunch... think I'll start recording these, some are over the top hilarious because I'm great at "role play" & acting...I'm a cross between Rosanne Barr and Lily Tomlin...but dang they got my home and cell phone numbers and they have my service code information, so Dell must not have good security....recently had some work done and was done remotly....scary they're able to scam people like they are...its paying off well because so many people are just plain old stupid!...at least I'm being entertained AND as long as I've got them on the line, they're unable to call your aging auntrie...maybe people should send me a few dollars! LoL....

I got one of these calls earlier today. They wanted me to download a software from a web page they directed me to... I told them i would not download anything until he (Alex w/ a heavy Indian accent) could send me something verifying who he was and what he was saying was legit. This went on for several minutes and i would not download... He eventually hung up saying that my windows 10 products would eventually not be working. I replied with "you mean the one's i paid for?" and he said yes.
My brain was telling me something wasn't right, and i'm glad i googled this to confirm it. Don't do it no matter how much they tell you on the phone who they are.

What to do now. I was stupid, I needed my computer desperately, a message came up warning me not to turn off my computer, I was in danger of messing up my computer etc, etc. I called the help # on the message and after getting on my computer told me I had the "koobface" worm. He told me he could fix it and protect my computer...5 hrs later he had different programs installed ... tracker, anti virus software, firewall, etc. He gave me the choice of payments beforehand and like a moron I choose the 5 yr protection plan and paid with cc. The next day I called with problem and he spent time fixing it. Also sent me a receipt. BUT when I checked out the address, it is a private home, phone # is from England, tech is Indian...how screwed am I and what can I do now? Appreciate any help
Thank you Gki

Wow....The Jokers tried to pressure but they keep the pressure up so high that I knew something was not right. Plus I could not see my way into giving them my checking account number. They should be executed for their bold "crappiness"....I looked up scams on my IPhone and discovered all of the information that these assholes were trying to use in Scamming me.....Thank God I avoided the pit that they dug for me.......

I got a call yesterday at my desk number from Bakersfield, CA 661-834-3140. An indian man named James said that he was with Windows Technical Dept and my computer was at risk and he needed my IP address. Now I'm No Fool but I decided to play along. I told him that I was at work and that my laptop is at home. He says, I'll hold while you go get it. LOL I say, Sir, I wont be home for hours. He says, I'll call you back, what time? I say 8pm. Silence...
Then he says can I call you at 6pm, I say no. I wont be home til 8pm.

At 8pm he called, 3 times in a row but he kept hanging up.
Today, he called my desk again. I told him that I dont use my laptop and that it's been dead for months. He said it's still at risk, I'll call you back. I told him no thank you, then he got irate with me and started yelling about my security and hackers getting into my computer.
I calmly said No Thank You, Dont Call Me Again and hung up.

I was on the internet about to log in to my bank account and I got a pop up saying that my computer is hacked and that I should call windows tech support as soon as possible. I do not usually call but for some reason I did. The guy that answered did a scan through my computer and showed me the many spywares that have been installed. One in particular that decodes my password, which he demonstrated how it works. He went on to say my network was compromised so even if I fix my computer and re connect to the network the same thing would happen. He went to quote prices to fix my computer it would be 499 if I went to the store to get it fixed but 219 to do it remotely. When he talked about getting my payment information I was skeptical and ended up hanging up the phone. He was so convincing. Smh

Got the call yesterday and hung up. Got it again today and played along with the script as the heavily accented man tried to describe what keys to push on the lower left row of the keyboard and tell him what showed on the screen. Of course, the display never matched his expectations because I use a Mac and an Apple keyboard. Eventually his frustration showed and he passed me to his "supervisor" who walked me through the same drill. Eventually he concluded I had an Apple product and asked me to enter an address. I said I thought you were Microsoft support so how could you fix my Mac? He said the first caller made a mistake and misidentified the service; that we were really "an Apple-authorized 24-hour tech service." I laughed and hung up.

I continue to get the calls as well. I string them along for a few minutes telling them my computer is down and i begin to boot it up. i set the phone down for a few minutes. after a while of talking to them i'll try to be cooperative and then i'll merge them onto a call with the number 800-262-5739. Again i'll set the phone down and go about my work until they hang up. That number is the anal sex hotline, sometimes they'll listen to it for a while.

I have been approached innumerable times in the past but I have received three calls in the last two days each caller with what appears to be an Asian accent - either the Philippines or India! I do not possess a Microsoft based computer so I can fein interest and play along with these fools. I usually just thank them for their concern and tell them I am too busy at that very moment to do anything and will they call back later.
However, today I asked the last caller - a male - how he had identified me as a Microsoft user and would he, please, tell me my name. With that he called me a "f-----g b-----d" and "to go to hell"! I then feigned deafness and requested he repeat his comment - which he did! I then hung up!
Not a very pleasant time waster!

I got 2 calls today from a "Windows Technical Support," and like the other commenters it was a heavily accented caller in a noisy call center. I played along at first then finally told him that I didn't have a computer, at which time he became angry, calling me a Mother******and various other names before hanging up! Never heard such vile language from a telephone solicitor before!!!

"Someone" from windows has called me multiple times in the past wk. asked me if i had a Windows computer & i said No, then he immediately said "shh shh listen to me, listen to me please, Don't interrupt me." i just keep hanging up but it's getting so annoying now

S/E WI scam of a coworkers computer today.
Clicked a link that brought up a screen that read something like "Windows Security: Immediately Call 844.717.7548" to which he did and then allowed them access via supportme dot com and rescue dot me.
Question: Is the goal to install viruses and malware, extract files from your computer, or get your bank/credit card info?
His computer blocked up after they were in and installed something. They then asked for Bank info to get payment set up for a 2 year monitoring system. Can files be removed from a computer through logmein?
Thanks

In the Run command he was told to enter HH H (HHspaceH). Then a help command came up and he was told to right click on the icon on the top left corner (html help). Then entered http://www.support(dot)me and that's when the fun started. No clue what happened from there.
Since then I've logged back into the computer and the 'chat/conversation' panel was up and running and tried to reconnect but the network was not connected. I'll not try to find and remove it. 247techcenter and 24/7 Tech Center

Unfortunately, calling them names, including a correctly descriptive one is water off a duck's back. I have received calls from these clowns off and on for a couple of years. Always the same setup with the same results. Telling them I know they are scammers and there is no way they are getting at any of my machines just means they call again later, hoping to get someone more gullible. I received a call today from "David". It was a slow day so I decided to jerk him around a little bit:

D: Hello, may I speak to (my name).
Me: Who's calling?
D: This is David with Windows support, calling you because we are receiving errors from your computer.
Me: Which one? I have several.
D: Your Windows 7 computer.
Me: I run XP/Pro.
D: No, your Windows computer.
Me: XP is a Windows operating system. Did they not teach that in Indian Tech School?
D: We are receiving the following errors. (He then rattles off some techno mumbo jumbo).
Me: I have seen no errors and all machines are running fine. How do you see my errors?
D: We have access to log reporting over the internet. We can review your logs with you and fix them (persistent little bastard. Most have given up by now)
Tiring of the game, I finally tell him that I really don't have time right now to deal with this. Give me your real name and phone number and I will call you back when I do. Windows support hung up on me. Imagine that.

Just had a call from these scammers this lunch time, typically Indian lady explaining to me that she wanted to help with a problem I was having on my Windows computer! Funny that as I have apple!! I told her that Windows don't ring people that haven't asked for help, with that she shouted down the phone for me to shut my mouth! Plus other gratuities, the line was really bad so thankfully didn't get everything she said? how Rude!

I hung up and hard shutoff my computer when they asked to refund. Unfortunately they have locked my computer, and are demanding 600$. I DESPERATLEY need my computer tommorow, if anyone can help, that would be great.

I've lost track of how many times they've called, it's been going on for at least 4 months now, and it's 2-3 times per week all during 7-8pm (just this week alone they've called twice already and it's only Tuesday). (My parents were the ones who got the first initial call and fell for it, but wised up when the guy started asking for pass codes and numbers). I'd really like to know if there is any way to get them to stop calling. I've tried telling them we don't have any computers anymore (several times now and they're still calling). Mom has threatened them with police action (that was yesterday. Didn't stop them from calling this evening). (I've heard suggestions of using a whistle or an airhorn next to the phone. Anyone know if those actually stop the calls completely?)

Unfortunately, very little can be done to stop them. A police report is advisable to document the attempt, but they won't likely stop since they are likely beyond the reach of law enforcement. A caller id blocker is a good tool. I bought one on Amazon for forty dollars and it has stopped all of the scam calls I used to deal with except those that block their spoofed phone number. It comes in as "Private" or "Unknown" caller so the box doesn't know how to block it. Too bad I could not find one that could be set to automatically reject all blocked caller ids. I should have looked harder.

I've gotten at least 7 calls from these jokers, always between 10:15 p.m. and 11:15 p.m., always South Asian accents and English names, always call center noise in the background. They have used 562, 485, and 888 area codes. Even though I told them that we have no Windows systems in the house and that I know that they are a scam and to quit calling this number, they still call. I'll have to use some of the methods recommended here.

I've been getting calls from these scammers every few days. I know they are scammers and I get a kick out of annoying them. They always say that there is a problem with my computer so I ask, "which one?". They say something like "your personal computer" and I say, "which one?" They ask if I have more than one personal computer and I say something like "If you know that I have a problem with my computer, than you will know the make, model number and MAC address of the computer with the problem." ... and then I just keep repeating myself and throwing in a few derogatory comments like "what are you stupid?", "Get me someone that speaks English" or "I know that you don't work for Microsoft because they would never hire someone so dumb." I vent my aggression towards them and feel well vented. LOL

Two calls this week. One yesterday afternoon and one at 6:45 AM today! Caller ID: Bill Owen 208-836-5598. I fear I was not as polite as you. I questioned their sanity calling before 7 a.m. and suggested that just having her arrested would not suffice....will leave it there.

Unfortunately, I have an elderly friend (age 90) who spent an hour on the phone with these clowns. He did say that when they asked for his credit card he hung up. I fear that they have infiltrated his machine. I have asked him a couple of times if anything seems out of the ordinary and thus far he has not noticed any ill effects.

I got this call and gave them remote access to my computer and they showed me a bunch of malware I had. But when it got to the point of making a payment it sounded very fraudulent and I googled it got to this page. I didn't pay and hung up on them after telling them this was a scam. Im scared that they now have sensitive information of mine. What do I do to ensure that nothing bad happens to my computer or takes my information.

I've had extended calls with "Peter" in the last week, and the first time I told him I was going to contact microsoft to verify, he got really mad and told me he was going to lock up my computer so I could never use it. The last one (Today) told me that Windows isn't Microsoft and they will have no knowledge of their tech support. He said both times he was calling from Sacramento. I keep putting the numbers on my call block list, but they are going to have more phone numbers than I am allowed to block.

I was hit with this scam and was taken in. It was really professional and since most work is outsourced anyway , it is the American way. Then I started thinking about it when they called my wife back and I was gone. So , I returned home and the numbers were not 24 hour numbers. SOB, I was taken , so I canceled my card immediately ,, I had my security team BASK .COM , clean my computer, changed every password and yes stop payment on the fraud. They are good and when I was talking to them I was running questions on Ipad to check numbers and scams and found nothing. Problem is I did not ask the right goggle question. LOL OKAY LIVE AND LEARN, I was an idiot for the first time in years. Nice to know I am still a normal man and nice to know, LOVE EVERYONE, TRUST FEW AND ALWAYS PADDLE YOUR OWN CANOE.

I have been getting their calls for many months. I usually say something quite rude and hang up. Yesterday, I received 5 separate calls, the last 3 from a US 614 area code, with a very American-sounding name showing on my caller ID. I wish there was some way to just get them to stop calling. It is endless harassment. This is less fun than the Nigerian prince who is trying to get his ex-bribery funds out of the country.

Just off the phone from "Washington" 562-698-1991 - can not call this number back. Started as a call for Microsoft tech that they have notified us several times however we never answered. then onto the script, which at first did get me a little.. up to the point where they had me hitting the screen key and the r button which is when I was switched to a different person, who said he was the same person just a better connection now.. :)

At the end, after he was telling me how smart I was, I said not today but thanks... that's when he started saying stuff that it was because of his accent etc. Can't imagine how many of these calls they make with all of the noise in the background. But I am sure they do get people and take them for a ride.

I received a call from "Jack", obviously from India. He asked if I was on my computer (I was), but I replied no Jack, I am not on my computer. "Jack" asked me to sign onto my computer as they "Windows" had received information that my computer was in the process of being hacked into and sensitive information from my computer was at risk. I explained to "Jack" that I was presently providing care to my elderly mother and it was a bad time for me. I requested "Jack's" call back number, but he was so very nice. "Jack" offered to wait on the phone, while I tended to my ailing mother. I then told Jack that she required a lengthy breathing treatment and again requested his call back number.

Being ever so thoughtful, Jack then offered to call back in 20 minutes. I then asked "Jack" how the weather was in India and hung up the phone. It has been one day now, and sadly, "Jack has not called back. I really would like to play some more, as I am retired and have a lot of time on my hands. I think if If am lucky enough to receive another call from Jack, I want to ask all kinds of questions, so to waste enough of "Jack's time" that it lessens the amount of people he can call and try and scam.

I overheard my son talking to someone on the phone. I asked who he was talking to and he informed me it was windows tech support. He was on his own personal computer and the screen was going wild with activity. I told him to hang the phone up and do a hard shut down on his computer. The indian guy called him on his cell phone and had him to go to a website called hamachi or something, giving him access. My son (12) gave the gentleman his name, email address and cellphone, which was the one he called him on. What do I need to do to ensure that the program is off his computer and if our other devices are safe on the same router.

Your home network *should* be fine, but running antimalware tools on all devices will confirm that. For your son's computer, run the standard add/remove programs, look for the application that was installed (you can sort the list by "Installed on" date) and remove it that way. You might like to follow that with a malware scan.

These jerks have made it a daily routine to call me asking for my husband. I jerked them around a few times, and answered the phone, "FBI, Officer Jones, May I help you". The idiot just kept on talking even after I told him he was a scam artist and the phone conversation will be recorded and monitored. That still didn't stop him. They are now calling from different area codes. I have told them we didn't own a PC, you name it. Still doesn't work and they become angry and speak over you. I've just had about all I can take and can't even call the number back because a recording comes on that the phone number cannot be dialed. Now what!!! Every single day for the past 8 days, I cannot take this anymore.

Somewhere they got my name and my cell phone number. The first time they called me, it was a male Indian accented "tech" and as soon as he said he was a windows technical support specialist I became wary. A windows tech, not Microsoft? He wanted to let me know I had windows issues on my computer and, if I remember, he rattled off an IP address, of which I don't know if it was mine or not. I have three computers and three or four phones running off of a WiFi plus a Kindle Fire. Anyways, I said I wasn't having any issues and didn't have time. Call two came the next day with a female Indian tech. I told her I was not at home and hung up. I looked up windows tech support on the internet and that is how I came to this and other information pages. I got a third call, a female Indian "tech" and asked who it was because they asked for me by my first name again. When they told me I said I know you are a scammer and to quit calling me. She got very defensive and said they are required to call. I said then have Bill Gates give me a call and hung up. I did not like that they had my name and CELL PHONE #. Hopefully after throwing the scammer word at them I am off their list now.

For the past couple of years I've been receiving these calls, so I decided to have some fun and see how long they would play. Well it was longer than I thought. Kept them on the phone for over 30 min.
They kept wanting me to press the windows key, just kept telling them I didn't have a windows key. I got transferred to 3 different support reps, all trying to find my windows key (lol). Then they told me to just type 'www'; asked where, they said anywhere (lol). Told them I had a special keyboard for the blind and there was no windows key...
This went on for 30 min. and they finally hung up.
So, now the question will be when is the next time I get a phone call back. I had blocked the original 5 phone numbers, this one came in as 'blocked'
But, hey I kept them from calling a number of other unsuspecting 'Marks', so I did my good deed for the day :-)
Maybe my next game will be to Harbor Freight and get an air horn, to end my call.. Keep posted.

when the jokers called me a few weeks back, I acted like I was going along. first I told her I had to turn on the computer, I tried to small talk her and it didn't work. after a couple of minutes, I began to "follow her instructions." suddenly I hollered "Oh sh** what did you do to my computer?" I told her that suddenly the screen went black and the thing would not restart, it was dead. after a while I convinced her that I would have to take it back to the dealer and get it fixed. 3 days later she calls again and asks if I got it fixed. I told her that another person from her group had called me just behind her the other day, had told me that the original caller was going to call me back like she just had, and was going to give me an address to send my machine to and they would fix it. she argued back that I must be wrong, I made up a name for the second caller and kept asking for the address she was supposed to be giving me. kept her going for a half hour before I got bored, began laughing and she hung up. she was mad as heck at me before SHE hung up. they have called a few more times and I just tell them they are lying, I am running Linux and it surely does not send them messages. my Windows is just fine, though I hate it, I had to buy a new laptop several months ago and the a**hole at Best Buy convinced that 10 runs just like my old 7. I needed the machine so I kept it, but where the hell are my "mouse" buttons, I had to figure out how to right click, I use that feature constantly. when it boots with all the "windows" on the screen it almost looks like Windows 3.1 but sure doesn't run like that either. I'm so glad that somebody else knows what I want and need, they saved me from making my own decisions. now I can just be mindless and fall for phone calls....

thank you Christian, I'm just a grouchy old viet nam vet who has for years thought it was my job to play with minds and piss people off before they get me. I usually tell them that I fought so they had the right to their stupid opinion, just don't be trying to sell it to me. every body seems to think that I need to vote like them, go to their church, buy their brand of toilet paper, use them to put siding on my house, buy an extended warranty from them for my ???, come to their dental or hearing aid office, you know who I am talking about. my sacred space surrounds me exactly the length of my arm plus a fist, unless I have a 45 in my hand. either way, they don't want to be in my space and I won't get into theirs. when I am driving, I hate the ones who want my space while I am still using it or will be in just a second, they are welcome to it when I am finished, but not before. have a great one

Just to let you all know, "Microsoft" were on the phone again this morning; twice! First time to tell me I had won a 1000 euro prize and if I went on my PC and followed their instructions, the money would be mine. I declined. The second phone call came 20 minutes later, by this time I was mad and told him to p**s off and leave me alone. I will see what tomorrow brings.

I also have gotten these calls which I find amusing because I use a MAC and Ubuntu systems and have no window based PC's. However, since I am semi-retired I get a kick out of running these assholes around and around. I even got one so upset at me, because once he realized I was smarter than him and was jerking him around he yelled and screamed at me and broke his phone! The calls I get are from numbers like 533-481-7869. Which when I try and call back says the number is disconnected. It is kind of amazing that with all our technology you would think the phone companies could provide some measure of security and authenticity of calls we receive through their networks. I mean with all the money they are making off of us....oh wait a minute, I guess that they are also making money off of the spammers as well, so why would they cut off a revenue stream just because it is the responsible thing to do? Remember when the internet was a phone book and you could by simply asking the phone company when they came out to hook up your phone and give you your phone number that your name, address and phone number be listed as unlisted before it was published. Ahh the good old days.

Thanks for posting this, it has saved me time and money. A few weeks ago I contacted Microsoft about a problem with Windows 10. They contacted me a few days later and using remote software they sorted the problem out for me. This morning I received an unsolicited phone call from "Lisa", who said she was from Microsoft and that they had identified my PC as being infected with Trojan Horse viruses, could she remotely access my PC and remove them? Having just woken up from a late night out, I wasn't exactly firing on all cylinders, but I was suspicious, I asked her to ring me back, I then googled "scam calls from Microsoft" and found this website. She did ring back and I told her I knew it was a scam and hung up. She has not phoned back.

IMPORTANT: To add to the information available, I am currently in Spain where we have a landline telephone. Family and close friends are the only people to have this number, until I gave Microsoft this number to sort out my problem, I think an MS employee has sold on the information or, more unlikely their database has been hacked. I have passed on my thoughts to Microsoft, but if anyone reading this has had an unsolicited contact from "Microsoft", especially if you have contacted them in the past, DO NOT LET THEM ACCESS YOUR PC.

I was just called an idiot when I told the caller that I was tired of getting such scam calls and he should be ashamed of earning a living preying on people. He then challenged me to prove it was a scam. I said Microsoft didn't have that phone number and he then told me Windows was not Microsoft. When I continued to berate him, he just kept calling me an idiot.

my technique is to talk about karma: how when you trick and lie and steal from people then eventually the cosmos will have its revenge on them and/or their family. How they should be ashamed of what they are doing in stealing from vulnerable people. Usually gets a hangup immediately, and it is very satisfying!

I get one of these calls every other week or so ... When I have time I like to string them along for a half-hour (if possible). I go thru the usual delays (my wireless phone battery is low and I have to switch receivers; my PC is taking longer than usual to boot and/or I need to re-boot several times, the headset for his supervisor is weak/unreadable (true) and he needs to call back on a different line, etc.) If he asks about my operating system I tell him I run 10.10.5 (which is OSX Yosemite on my Mac - but he is still clueless). While I had him on today I found your website and told him I had a video running ... then played him the recording of the "Windows Tech Support" call above. He hung up.

Got a call this afternoon and told him I don't want to buy tech support and am too busy to take the call. He insisted he was not selling computers or tech support. I said to give me a call back # to prove he used a really l the call. He insisted he was not selling computers or tech support. I said to give me a call back # to prove he used a real #. He gave me 845 241 1234 (sounds suspicious) but I got too busy to call. I had said to call back in 2 hrs, and he did, but I'm handicapped and couldn't get my laptop till hubby came in. He's here now and I'm calling 'John Williams' (who has a distinctly oriental accent) and telling him what I found here concerning his SCAM.

Got calls the last three days in a row. the first call I told him I run apple and he hung up. The next day got the call and told him I didn't have a computer. He said he had my "computer license" in front of him. I told him again that I didn't own a computer. Today they called I acted concerned and told him that my roommate Bob had the laptop at his office and the should let him know immediately. I gave them the number of the branch office of the FBI. It should be an interesting conversation.

I get these calls all the time and just love messing with them. I let them give me their spiel and then I ask one or two questions or make a statement:

1. If you are from Windows and my computer is sending you messages, what is the IP address of the computer? They start sputtering.
2. I usually have 3 or 4 computers running at the same time, please tell me the name of the computer sending messages. Same thing, they start sputtering.
3. I don't run Windows, we only use MACs. They hang up
4. My favorite, just stick the phone in front of my sound system and let them listen to the TV show I'm watching. They hang up

It all depends on how bored I am as to what response they get. BTW, both my spouse and I have worked IT jobs for the last 20+ years. These callers are idiots.

I get lots of these calls. For some callers, I waste their time until I get bored. Others I say I'm busy and hang up. The most recent caller wanted me to access supremofree.com. I verified that it was a remote access site, and told the caller I had no intention of giving him access to my machine, and then huung up.

I received a call this morning from the scammer, telling me in his thick Indian accent that his name was Alex Gordon. I told him you are calling from India and your name isn't Alex Gordon. He hung up. It was fun.

I just got such a call. First, the ID of the caller was hidden which on its own was suspicious. He gave the same narrative with an Indian accent. I asked him he should tell me the brand of computers I am using if they have such a system that detects some error on my system a world away. Of course he got no answer to that but was defensive with statements on why I am at risk.

I just got this call. I hadn't heard about this scam before, but I'm always leery of calls from #'s that are cloaked on my caller ID. I refused to do anything to my computer while on the phone with him. I asked for his number and said I'd call him back. Naturally the number was bogus when I called it, prompting me to google the scam. It's gratifying to find it was indeed a scam and that my paranoia was justified. Thank you for posting about this!

Well that's a record: four phone calls from the "Windows Technical Department" scam so far today. Normally they come in about two or three months apart. Since I do not run Windows on my computer I have to laugh as soon as the caller states, "This is ... from the Windows Technical Department and we have detected ... on your computer," I immediately know the caller knows absolutely nothing about my computer but is trying to scam me.

I can't seem to get rid of the infestation. Vipre Anti virus doesn't show anything wrong but every website I go to ends up going to a page that says I need to call this 888 number. It's the same for Edge, Explorer 11 and Chrome. Does anyone know how to get rid of the warnings?

Got one this morning. Asked him what version of Windows I use, since all are registered copies under my real name, which he had already. He said he couldn't see it. I asked him how that's possible, since if he worked at Microsoft they'd want to have as much info available to their call reps when cold calling a customer for security challenges (I work in a call center for a health insurance company that does both inbound and outbound calls, we see pretty much everything). He then asks *me* how many computers I have and what versions of Windows they run. I started laughing and hung up on him. I get a couple of these a month; next time I'm going to mess with them.

Somebody called me this morning claiming to be from Windows Support. I sensed a scam, but I decided to string him along. He said there were multiple people around the world trying to get into my computer, including two people in Nigeria. I finally shut him down by asking him for his Microsoft ID # (not even sure if such a thing exists) at which point he told me that microsoft has nothing to do with Windows, they just build the computers. I started to disagree with him and he just hung up.

There was a very credible pop up stating that I had some sort of problem with my internet provider and that I needed to call 888-727-1139 for immediate support. There was another message saying that the support was provided by Microsoft. I could not skip the message nor delete it so I called the number. I am french and so is the company that sorves me internet. The guy named Shawn Miller did not speak french and I was annoyed. Anyways, I followed is instructions up to the point that he got acces to my computer but when he started asking questions of confirmations I got suspicious and told him so. He started making very fast transactions on the sreen and I turned off manually my computer. He then hung up the phone. I guess I've been hacked. Same "window key" and letter "r" at the same time and same "support" adress taht I had to type in.
Next time I get a problem with my PC, I'm switching to Mac. YOU HAD YOUR CHANCES MICROSOFT.

This just happened to me yesterday with a fake virus warning that popped up on my laptop and it locked up and wouldn't do anything. The warning said my Internet provider was blocking malicious malware and to call 855-260-6176 immediately. Unfortunately I did call and let them take over the computer briefly, but then got suspicious and called my Internet provider on the other phone and they confirmed it was a scam so I shut down the computer and hung up on the scammer. Now I'm just not sure how to make sure my computer and WiFi are safe. Will be resetting and re-installing OS. Is there anything else I need to do before using the laptop again?

The best reply I've found for me after stringing them along to waste as much of their time as I can with the 'I'm sorry, would you repeat that', to 'no, my computer isn't on', and 'waiting' while I boot it, 'sorry, my computer's slow', and then not being able to understand which key I'm supposed to push, "It's the one in the lower left with the Windows symbol on it," 'Sorry, I just don't see it' to finally being asked what the key says, 'It's got an fn on it.' I finally laugh and tell them I just don't see how I could be having Windows trouble on my Mac Pro! They hang up really quick.

Just had a call 10 minutes ago. I'm in the UK. The man called me by my previous name and talked about zip codes so obviously my spidey senses went up! I challenged him, asked him for his name and the address from where he was calling and he got rather aggressive. I then asked him to tell me how he intended to 'fix' my computer and how much it was going to cost. He said obviously nothing was for free so I gave him my free advice to OFOD.
Rather annoying but I can see how someone not computer 'savvy' might be taken in. I'm suspicious of any unsolicited call so he picked the wrong person.

I just got one of these. Most disturbingly, in order to present themselves as on the up-and-up, they recited to me my Windows security key - a very long alphanumeric string with dashes to break it up. How did they know this? and does this mean I'm at risk even though I terminated the call before giving them remote access?

As for how they gained your security .... 1st, did you confirm this was your security key, and not some other string? Did you compare it against the key on the back of your computer, or on the disc box for your version of Windows, etc?

2nd, could they have received the information from the store you purchased the unit from?

They had me enter a command - I forget which one - that resulted in a bunch of stuff scrolling down on my screen, culminating in the said string. It's not on any of the stickers on my computer.

I don't know if I have a disc box for my version of Windows, as it just came loaded onto my laptop when I bought it. And I bought it many years ago - 2011 or so, IIRC - so I don't know how they would have got it from the store.

Got this call this morning and of course knew immediately it was a scam but wanted to waste the caller's time for as long as I could to keep him busy and away from people who might be fooled. I got the call at 8:10 am and pretended to play along for a while, then said, "What time is it where you are?" Caller was very mumbly and didn't understand me (and vice versa) but I finally got him to say it was 8:10. I said, you're calling me from Microsoft and it's 8:10? Are you in Washington? He said, yes ma'am, Washington. Microsoft in Washington. I said, Washington DC or Washington state? He kept saying Washington, and even said, "Washington DC. No, Redmond Washington." I said, and what time is it in Redmond Washington? He said, "It's 8:10." We kept this up for a while until he finally hung up.

I live in the Pittsburgh area. I receive phone calls from India claiming to be from VAPeSecure wanting to refund a payment I made to them 10 months ago. Allowing them access to my computer, they tried to get banking information. When I refused they insisted the refund could be done through Pay Pal. Logging into my Pay Pal account, my monitor went dark for at least 5 minutes. Now realizing I'm being scammed, I ask the voice on the phone what it is he is doing that I can't see. He insists he is depositing the $99 refund into my account. When the account page reappears, the account ($0) balance now says $999. He asks me to read off the amount, then panics claiming he hit the "9" key too many times by accident. He demands I return the $900 over payment. I'm screaming at him that I know it's a scam, I demand he break off control of my computer. He refuses claiming I'm tricking him, & I owe him money. I try to shut my PC down, He installs a program that locks my system preventing startup. He laughs & says my PC will be locked until I pay him. I call him some choice names hung up. & used a start up repair program to remove the software. Close call! It's been a week, No one has hacked my bank or Pay Pal account. Beware!

I have contacted my financial institutions. I allowed remote access to my computer then balked at giving my checking account info. I will see a computer specialist tomorrow. Here is my question: I was on my laptop. It popped up ON MY LAPTOP "download Windows 10" and I allowed the download. The next day I got a screeching warning box and message to call an 800 number. How did they do that??? Not a phone call, all happened on my computer. Then I called the number and allowed them access before I balked. What happened?

I've been getting calls that show up "Private Number" on my phpne for the past week. Normally I don't answer my phone unless it's someone I know personally (I also use Nomorobo.com for recorded calls) but since I've had a family member here with me on home rehab after surgery I have to answer the phone for calls from visiting nurses, physical therapists, etc. Today I answered and got some idiot from Mumbai telling me that he's from "Windows Support". I yelled "bullshit to you" and hung up immediately. The worst thing about these people is they'll make ten calls, and hope that at least one of those ten will be some person who is not savvy enough to realize it's a scam (senior citizens are the most vulnerable)

Had the scammers call me twice today with the same script. Always suspicious, I shut them down immediately. Words the the wise: don't respond to any telemarketers, whether salesmen or fundraisers. Don't open any e-mail that is not from a familiar source. Finally, the IRS only communicates with you through the mail, not by telephone calls.

I've received several of these calls. Last time after wasting their time I overheard one of the callers colleagues say "just send him the chocolates". That must be a code phrase to discontinue the call because they immediately hung up. So the next time they called we wasted a little more of their time then stated "just send me the chocolates". The guy immdeiately responded F*** Off. I asked what did you say? He aagain stated F*** Off you son of a B****!" then hung up. It was great. They hate for you to waste their time but we are still curious what that code phrase might mean.

I have been receiving these calls from India for months now. I received one yesterday Like Joann reported above, and even knowing better, I got taken in. This person conned me into letting him connect to my PC, paying $399 which included a senior citizen discount of $100 to my credit card, calling my credit card company and telling them to please approve the international charge since I was the main cardholder. Then he told me that his upper level tech would now complete the work and let me know when it was finished. An hour and a half later, my computer shut down. I started it up again and things 'seemed okay'. During the night, I woke up and something was on my mind, if this guy is from Microsoft as he says, why would I have to go to another website to pay for the work? I went online and looked up 'rayanddan'. Tons of people reported these scammers. I called my credit card company to report it. I had caught it early enough. We agreed that they would not pay the scammers the $399, closed my account and I would get a new one in about a week. I called LifeLock and alerted them. They flagged my account and it will be following the case. They suggested that I file a report at FTC.gov and a local police report, just for the record.
Good luck everyone.

I got one of these calls last night and I just can't believe I fell for a it for about 10 minutes. I'm trying to understand if they were able to get into my computer and if I need to put fraud alerts on my credit cards or banking info. They got as far as me opening the Run program and seeing the errors and warnings and then from the run program opening up a website: http://www.securepc.me. On the website was options to download programs: 'Show my PC', Web Conference Call', and 'Options'. I didn't download anything and at this point knew this was a scam. How it took me that long, i don't know, I feel pretty foolish.

That's as far as we went, my question is, was that far enough for them to get access to files or login/passwords, or install any viruses or tracking programs, etc on my computer. Or is the scam only complete if you download anything or pay for anything. Thanks so much for any advice!!

I just got a call like this today for the 2nd time this week. I have have been in the telemarketing industry for many years and I can tell you this is 100% a scam.

What to do? Tell the rep you dont feel comfortable giving him your PC remote access since he called you and that he should give you his call back number and you will call him right back. Once you have a call back number, call back to verify that its indeed the number of the person who called you. Now call the FTC at 877-382-4357 hit option 1, then option 8 to report the scam.

This is a scam going on here in the USA for years we need to stop this scam from fellow citizens who arent savvy enough not to give these scammers your PC access. It is our (the ones who know its a scam to get a call back number to properly report it. to the FTC at 8773824357 option 1 for English, then option 8.

19 Jan 2016 @ 0900hrs: I just dealt with a nasty individual. Identified himself with a western name. I uttered an oath, told him to stop scamming people and hung up on him. This jerk phoned me back and started calling me all sorts of foul names. I simply hung up a second time. He phoned up a third time and continued his verbal abuse...

I identified myself as Law Enforcement (WPS) gave him my badge number and instructed him to remain on the line; that the call was now being traced and that should he hang up he would be charged with obstruction of justice (that line plagiarized from "how to prank a telemarketer.com"). It had the desired effect; he stopped calling me names and terminated the call.

What a bunch of brazen criminals these people are! Incredible that these individuals continue to get away with this. I thought there was a no-call list in Canada. Maybe it is only for legitimate charities based on Canadian soil. Clearly, it isn't working very well.

Alternatively, I have also wasted their time by cooperating with them up to a point but stopped short of allowing them to take over control of my computer. I provided them with an indication that I was uncomfortable allowing anyone except Dell to take over control of my PC and simply did not take that step and refused (politely) to allow them access. One individual countered by telling me that yahoo was upset with me and that I ran the risk of being fined some outrageous sum of money (it was hundreds of dollars BTW) unless I complied with their request to turn over control of my computer to them.

What followed was an argument over the phone. I called his bluff and said that if he had the power to execute such threats then I might be prepared to comply but I would have to see that sort of power exercised first. I believe the call was ended again once I identified myself as a Police Officer and asked him to remain on the line.

Again, mostly these people are chicken-shit scammers who prey on peoples' ignorance and lack of technical expertise. They best way to counter these fraudsters is to network, talk to family, friends and work colleagues. Forums like this are awesome! Spread the word.

I called them back and told them I was actually from windows support. lol He then told me he was also from windows so I asked him to prove his credibility but providing the FDIC number of his 3rd party affiliate company. Now if you're not aware already FDIC is insurance for banks and has nothing to do with windows support. But the guy fumbled and said "sir I cannot provide you with that number" - you can't provide me a made up number?? lol Then just for laughs, I told him this phone call is being recorded for investigators on your 3rd party company. He immediately hung up the phone while I laughed hysterically.

I just got a call from one of these guy yesterday. Called telling me he was from window and someone had hacked into my network and could access everything else that was connected to my network like my phones and iPads and other smart devices. of course he got me there I thought my stuff was in danger so I let him access my computer to show me what was wrong. Then he told me he could help me fix it but I had to by this web security after he fixed it. He wanted $300 for 5 years protection or $500 for 10 years and I got a free all in one printer. Or $1150 for a life time warranty and I got a free laptop with that one. I told him I didn't have the money. He then asked if I could borrow the money from someone then asked well if we just tried your card. That's when I got mad and hung up. Then I quickly turn off my wifi and shut down my computer. Then looked this up to see if it was a scam and it was. This is the number they called me from 860-591-7532 saying it was coming from Hartford,ct

I received one of these calls and spent 40 minutes asking how I stop my "children" from catching the infection. The call happened to come during some construction work where I had plastic sheeting covering a bunch of furniture. I made sure to rustle the plastic extensively and explain that I have now wrapped my computer in plastic to ensure that my family does not catch the infection.

As a software architect myself, I found that going to a wild extreme of answering their "support" questions in ways that are at an extreme end of not understanding technology and the associated jargon had two effects: 1) it hooked the scammers to believe that I am an easy target, 2) broke their script so they had to work to try and get back to it.

My personal favorite is to say, "Windows Tech Support? Excellent. My phone number should be in your files as a platinum-level customer. I'll need to verify your identity; please respond with the code from Red Baker Seven."

They will protest. At this point, I observe that there are people pretending to be Windows Technical Support, and while the verification system is new, and a bit inconvenient, the level of security provided is worth the trouble. I then repeat my request for verification.

This can go for as long as I'm willing to be stubborn. Eventually, I accuse them of being scammers, rather than the real WTS, and hang up.

I actually got a call from a "Windows Technician" telling me that my computer wasn't able to update Windows. Funny, cuz I was installing updates at that very moment. I told him and he continued his script that I wasn't able to install updates. I caught him, but he wasn't fazed at all and just kept reading the stupid script. I hung up. Now, when I get a call, I just tell them to go to Hell and hang up.

I received a call today from one, he said he was calling from "Windows Tech Support" because they are receiving pings from my computer for the last three months and my computer was being hacked. He went on to say that my internet provider had contacted them, which he named my provider, and they were there to help fix the problem. He said "I'm not here to sell you anything, we are here to help windows user, it does not matter what windows you are using. He continued to say "when you go on the Internet, there many sights that you go to and there are hackers who download viruses and hack your computer, so I'm here to assist you to fix it". I am aware of these scammers because this time their pitch was a little different, so I played along. I asked him, how do I know you are an actual windows tech. He said, I can tell you the ID of your computer and if you compare it with what you see on your and it does not match, you can hang up on me. So, he gave me this long ID#. I wrote the number and went to my computer, he said to tap the Windows flag key on my keyboard, he asked, what do I see? I said a window that said run. There he told me to type "cmd", again, what do you see, do you see your user name? Yes, then to type "assoc" that's when I drew the line. I asked what does that mean and what does that do? He began to get annoyed with because I said, I will not go any further until he tells me what it is. He refused for the third time and kept consistently saying he was here to help me. Since he did not give me an answer, I hung up. He kept calling, but my phone has a feature that if the phone # that is calling has a number that is unavailable, anonymous, and unknown, it will block it after the second ring and requests the call to identify themselves. If they don't, the block kicks in and hangs up.

These calls can be very convincing. "Jason" with a very heavy indian accent, called me twice. I was driving both times, so I asked him out right if he was going to try to access my computer and why. of course he said yes to show me where the errors where. I then asked him directly if he was going to try to sell me software to prevent these errors. He insisted that he was from windows tech support and only there to help find errors. (don't believe it). I then asked him if he could provide the ip address the errors where coming from. He gave me one! but of course it didn't match either of my computer networks. He did give me a number to call back when I got back to my desk top. 1800 256 3295 if anyone knows where to report this activity I would like to know.

Crazy thing, but we're getting about three to five of these calls per week - and that's just the ones we know about from when we're home. When we're not home, they get our fax. When I got the very first one, I broke out laughing and was promptly hung up on. Obviously, we'll never get taken by this scam. But I sure wish there was something our government and industry could do to make these guys hurt so they wouldn't find it profitable anymore.

So..I get these calls all of the time. Pretty annoying. Just got one and after I called him on his bluff, he proceeded to tell me all the sexual things he would like to do to my wife and mother. Now, I can take a joke and I'm not easily offended, but this one was over the top. to whom should I report this?

0148 3604782-Got unsolicited call f- Indian accents- claiming to be from Window s technical department ,Microsoft Corp-told me i had problem with my computer (er no?) which they could fix -keen for me to press CTRL + R - I played along, pretended i did it and nothing happened-this went on a while.10 minutes .. then passed to the "senor supervisor" called Harry who got quite annoyed when didn't manage to perform required CTRL + R - "Harry"refused to give me company contact details or tel number so i could verify them but said if I press CTRL + R- (very keen for me to do this) he would give me these contact details after all(?)- he blabbed on and on about how my computer would be put out of action, (threats? )unless I complied with them-- definitely a scammer- and full of BS and high pressure style- The call ended after I excused myself to get our dinner out the oven - when i returned to phone what a disappointment Harry had cleared! I was hoping he would be there so my parther (an IT engineer) could have a word with him. anyway When I did 1471 - 0148 3604782-tel. number popped up.

I had one of these calls from "Windows Technical Support" on Thursday this week... didnt get the number. I asked him if he would help me 'clean up my windows' - he said 'yes sir... that is what I am going to do'... I asked him which windex he preferred. *click*

I just got a call from Windows Tech Support; Caller ID 215-369-3325. After many minutes of trying to convince "Martin" (with a thick Indian accent) that I would call him back, he reluctantly gave me the phone number 800-290-2986. He did as me to run http://www.supremocontrol.com and download the program. I am a bit thick and went as far as going to the web page suggested. When he asked me to download this free program, my spidey senses started tingling. I googled "call from Windows" and immediately saw it was a scam. Hopefully, I have not opened myself up to getting robbed or computer sabotage. Please let others know about this. I know my parents and several older family members would easily have fallen victim to this scam.

I have been called for several months at least twice a week. India accent, the person professes they are with Windows. He wants me to turn on my computer as there has been illegal activity. Half the time I hang up on him. This time I listened. I told him I didn't know whether he was from Windows, Timbuktu, or India. I told him that my tech guy would call him next week. After much wrangling and yelling, he told me after I had asked about 10 times that his name was Frank and his no was 304-896-7522. I them asked to speak to his boss and very quickly Stephen Martin (really I ask if I could call him Steve). So I said Steve Martin you have a very familiar name. Have you done any acting lately. He didn't like that so quickly I was back with Frank. Didn't get Frank's last name. It is probably Sinatra. LOL,!

That's really the problem. While the authorities are aware of this and apparently are using legal means to shut them down (Microsoft are also involved) there doesn't seem to be an actual avenue of complaint.

I received one of these phone calls this morning. I told him to add our phone number to the "do not call" list and hung up. He immediately called back and asked why I had hung up on him. I explained that if this was a legitimate phone call from Windows, I would assume that they wouldn't have to block my ability to see who the caller was. He got angrier and angrier and started calling me f*****ing a**hole and told me that he was going to post my phone number all over face book and Whatsapp so that I could see what harassment was. I hung up again and he called back again! My husband answered the phone this time and tried to pretend that we were taping his call. He proceeded to tell my husband what he planned to do to me - and it wasn't nice. It is only now that it is setting in how frightening the whole experience was. I know that he is just blowing hot air, but I am pretty unsettled.

I just had a call from these guys-phone number 404-622-7070 if you'd like to block it now. He told me that someone was using my computer for "illegal activity" and he could take care of it for me. I was instructed to hold the Win and R at the same time. I made him repeat it 4 times. (my office is full of children and rather noisy at any given time). Finally I told him I did as he requested but my screen just went blank. He got rather nasty with me and hung up on me. What I did not tell him was my computer crashed and hasn't been used for almost 2 months. He wouldn't tell me what the "illegal activity" was but did finally say it had all occurred in the last 3-4 days. He even gave me a fake IP address for my computer "that I know you used last night". Wrong all the way around. I then put the phone on my desk so he could listen to the choir practice their Christmas program.

I have just had a call , claimed to be from a deptartment of Windows. She said my license was faulty and she could help me avoid problems. I said I would not allow her access to my computer. She then said I could go to their office in Manchester Industrial Estate for help!!!
She went on that this license prevents people from accessing my computer and downloading viruses , trojans etc. I then said " Thats exactly what you are trying to do"! She then got really stroppy and said that because I would not listen and let her help that they would just cancel my license and hung up.

Beware of First Choice Tech Support using the toll free number 1 855 875 1572. Made a url typo, reached and clicked on one of their infected websites which froze my computer while it consistently beeped. A pop up claiming to be from Microsoft gave this number to call for
fixing it.

They would only charge me $300 to repair the computer; $400 for a special package deal installing webroot. I almost fell for it. They are a SCAM; Microsoft does NOT offer this service.

I usually make out that I am old - I am actually 72 but I mean really old - and hard of hearing, if they mention windows I say we have just had new windows fitted to our house and don't need more, that causes lots of exasperation. Or I say the computer is off right now and takes a long time to warm up, then I put the phone down and carry on with whatever I was doing.

I tell them they have reached a security office in the NSA and that while I may disagree with the policy it is agency policy to call in a drone strike against scammers. I tell them I realize this is extreme, but national security is at state. I tell them their IP has been identified, their location has been pinpointed by satellite and an armed drone is enroute to their location. I advise them to leave the structure they are in and to warn their fellow employees to do likewise and not to stop running until they are at least one thousand feet away. As I hang up I tell them I will pray for them and sincerely hope that Almighty God will protect them.

I tell them I have a Mac and they hang up. Or I tell them that I have not used my PC Laptop
(I actually have one) in several months. Or I tell them that my PC is not connected to the Internet (true). Either way, they always hang up.

Lately I've just resorted to randomly choosing between stringing them along ("Sir we are noticing a lot of infections being reported from your windows computer" "Yes that would be due to all the pr0n I keep downloading, would you like free samples? I don't mind sharing..do you have any preferences?") to just telling them I have a mac/ipad ("Sir your windows computer has a lot of infections" "I have a iPad" "What? Why are you lying to me sir?" "I'm not..I only have an iPad" "Then how do you check your mail?" "Um...gmail on my ipad?......)

I was called last Friday. After being transferred to tier 2 I asked where they were calling from and told Orlando, Fl. When I told him he didn't have a FL accent he said that's because he was in Orlando... Ok then. When then told I have errors on my computer that need to be repaired I asked how the virus got past my router firewall, software firewall, two virus programs (one which auto scanned the night before) and malware scanner. At that point they hung up.

I was working on a Mac when I got the call. I played stupid. Couldn't find the start menu, etc. It was entertaining for a while. I wanted to waste some of his time, but it finally struck me that I was my time, too. I hate those people.

I usually say, "Tell you what, give me your real name and maybe we can talk." They always insist that "Rachel" is their real name and when I don't buy it, they either disconnect or try to get verbally abusive, at which point I disconnect. I love those American names on people who can barely speak English.

I very politely ask them " can you hold a moment while I go over to my computer?"....then put the receiver down on the desk, and go back to reading my book or watching TV. Up to 10 minutes will sometimes pass before they finally get it and hang up. In the meantime, I figure I've kept them from scamming at least one other person that day.

I also received this call. The guy asks me to read the icons off my screen which I thought was strange, so I ask him this: What version of Windows do I have? I have XP by the way, but he goes you have 7. I was like nope. Then he tells me to f***k myself. I was like that doesn't sound like something a Windows tech support person would say. This mad him more angry and he said f***k you over and over again until he hung up on me.

We were getting these calls on a regular basis, and they knew the name of our 12 year old too.
They were calling incessantly but soon stopped after I started to answer the phone in Spanish:
"como estas"

Over the past few weeks I received 2 separate calls from the "Windows Tech Support Team" telling me that they have been tracking my computer and noticed I am being attacked a little at a time each day and I need to get my computer safe before I lose all my valuable information. Most of the time I play the part of someone who has difficulty understanding them when they talk, repeating phases they say to me changing the words to make it seem like I can't understand them, or that maybe I'm hard of hearing. Today I decided to see just what they were going to say to me to scam me.

The first thing this scammer made me do was turn on the computer...Of course my computer was up and running, but he didn't know that... I asked him "how did you know my PC was off? as I chatted with him wasting his time telling him my PC was booting up. He of course bit for my lead hook, line and sinker, telling me my windows system is always monitored by their support team to assure my system safety. I thanked him and played along.

His next step was to get me to open the run box and type in "eventvwr." I made him repeat each letter several times.. as i listened for the frustration in his voice, wasting nearly 15 minutes of his time before I declared I finally got it!!! Then of course when I told him I saw all the warnings and red "error" codes I acted like I was totally unaware of the danger my PC was in and needed his help. The sound of his voice changed from frustration to excitement. He though he finally got me.

He told me the next step was to go back to the run box and enter "www.150.co.il." Of course I had no intention of going to his website so I played along, once again taking forever to get the site info and when I finally told him I got it, he told me to click on the link, which I responded "I did and nothing has happened!! He told me I must have done something wrong . I proceeded to act in a panic state begging him to help me because he must have been too late and the thieves must have taken over PC. I asked him for the name of the site, so I could search for it, and of course he did not give it to me. I think he finally realized I was playing him when he said... "I'm not going to listen to you anymore." When I have the time I love wasting scammers time, and I know when I've come up on top when they hang up on me!!!

I received this scam and decided to play with the guy a bit too. I made him jump through a few hoops with the error log, etc. Finally I just asked him why he didn't stop scamming and get a reputable job. He told me the money was too good! The company he works for brings in about 3 million USD per month. He also said that they are trying to get some operators set up in the US that don't have accents, and tried to recruit me! It's too bad that some of these guys are so rude. He was actually quite a charmer. You'd figure that if they were so cavalier about recruiting people that it wouldn't be too big of an issue to get some law enforcement involved and shut them down. Perhaps our tax dollars are somewhere else hard at work....

About three years ago, I Googled "McAfee Tech Support" to quickly find a phone number. The man who answered, "Edward," spoke with a thick Indian accent, which actually made him sound legit. The purpose of my call was to get help with a problematic download. Edward told me I actually had purchased the wrong McAfee product and he said he would be happy to download the correct antivirus software onto all three of my laptops. I did think that was odd, as McAfee tech support had never been that helpful in the past. Once he had control of my computers, he deleted the McAfee applications I had just purchased and downloaded the "correct" applications. He noted that my computers were running very slowly and offered to sell me a service plan which would cover speeding up all of my computers. I said I had never heard of McAfee offering that service. He told me his company was an authorized service provider for McAfee.

I know I was dumb to fall for this scam, but I wasn't thinking clearly, as my husband had just died after a lengthy illness. Edward completed an online "puchase agreement." I gave him my credit card information. As we were hanging up, I asked the expiration date of the McAfee antivirus programs he had installed. Fortunately, he sarcastically said, "911." That's when I knew I had been had. I immediately canceled my credit card before he could process the charge. I then called McAfee, and they were of little help. I researched what to do on reputable websites and downloaded and ran several well-known antivirus and anti-malware programs, as well as a registry cleaner. Edward had downloaded Trojans and worms on my main computer. It took me three days and nights to clean everything up. I changed all of my passwords and nervously monitored my bank and credit card accounts daily. I dumped McAfee and switched to Kapersky. I replaced my old gateway.

In the next couple of days, Edward left me a couple of voice mail messages explaining that he made a mistake with my credit card information, and he asked that I please call him. (Yeah, sure.) In a few months, the scammer calls began with a vengeance. For several months, I received several calls a day from two spoofed local numbers. At the time, I could block only 12 numbers through my phone service provider. In the evenings, those same two local numbers would be pared with an out-of-state area code. It was obvious I wasn't merely a random target. I was very frightened. Eventually, I was getting so many calls (at times 50 a month) that I installed call blocking applications and devices. I couldn't change my phone number, one I'd had for decades, because I was in the midst of settling my husband's estate. It was all a nightmare.

I still have the number, though I've ported it to a cellphone and will soon port it to Google Voice. The calls continue to arrive (not as many now), but the phone is so heavily blocked that it rarely rings. I learned a valuable lesson the hard way. I hope my experience can save someone else from being victimized.

I have recieved this call twice. I let them read their script and then respond with "Oh No!...this is HORRIBLE! What can I do?!" They tell me not to worry and that I'm very lucky they were able to get ahold of me to help!

They then proceed to ask me to look at the "Extreme bottom left of my keyboard" and tell them what I see.

I tell them I see the "Extreme bottom left of my keyboard". I let them get frustrated - thinking I do not understand what they are asking me - making them repeat themselves over & over until finally I tell them that now I understand. "I see the control key".

I did this on both calls I have recieved. Then, they told me to look for the windows key and I need to press that key along with the "R" key and tell them what I see.

On the first call, I responded with " I can't press the keys".

Sounding quite agitated, he responded with "Why can you not do what I have requested?"

I responded with " I was born with no arms and my big toes are too fat to hit the keys.

He hung up cussing.

Second call was a woman - asked what I saw in the window after pressing keys.

I've been getting these calls for years now, and they have definitely been targeting our area code. When I tell them I have a Mac they get very rude.

Maybe someone can help solve this mystery:
My 80 year old parents-in-law have never had a computer or been online. They had never received any cold calls to their landline. Recently we set them up with a PC and internet via a mobile router (not connected to their landline). We connected to them via TeamViewer. Within days they started receiving tech support calls, to their landline.

Once, about 5 minutes after we had a chat via TeamViewer, they received a call on the landline. I want to understand how they could have found out that these old folks became active online, have a Windows OS, and how this info was connected to their landline. It could be random cold-calling, but the odds seem very slim.

Could it be a security issue with TeamViewer? They have never given out a TeamViewer password except to me.

Just received a call 10mins ago.He had found an error, he was from windows tech support.I told him I didn't have a computer and was told.Woman you are a F-ing B**** I laughed and said Thank you yes I am. He reiterated this 3 times. Very think accent which I informed him he needed to learn english in order to scam correctly.Background I heard were other thick accents as well.

A couple of weeks ago I got a cold call from "Matthew" who was with Tech Support America (he had an Indian accent, the 974 area code indicated it was from Qatar). He went through the whole tech scam schpiel exactly as what has been decribed by all the sites warning you about these scam calls. I ultimately did not purchase his his "powerful" software that would fix my files---he was asking $299 for this "onetime" security service. This person would say anything to try and scare me into buying his"fix". I hung up on him and he called back two more times. Now he calls once or twice a week. I have Charter phone service so I am going to set up blocking their calls. I think they are under the impression that if they annoy me enough I will wear down and finally buy their crap. These people are parasites. I really feel sorry for the people they scare into buying their "service" because they can be very aggressive on the phone and if you're not aware of their tactics they will scare you into buying whatever they are "selling". You reap what you sow---they eventually will get what's coming to them.

Christian, I so enjoyed you stinging this guy along. I have received 3 calls from this boiler room. The first one was a few months ago, then two came in the past two weeks at roughly 5:OO AM Pacific time. I knew right away that this was a scam. On the first call I told him I didn't have a computer and hung up. (which is a lie but we rarely use our PC at home so...)
The second call came last week at around 5 AM PT and woke me up. Again, I told the guy I don't have a PC and hung up. This morning, at 5:20 AM I answered "Hello, (heard boiler room noise) and said, "Do you know what time it is where I live? You woke me up and I don't appreciate it!" Unapologetic he continued his dialog about my computer. I told him I don't have a computer, I know this is a scam... Him: You don't have a laptop? I am from Windows tech..."
Me: I said I know this is a scam, you woke me out of a sound sleep, take my name off your damn call list and never call me again. And give me your home phone number so I can call and wake your sorry ass up! He hung up...

I got my most recent call yesterday. I asked the guy, who I'm pretty sure is the same one who called before by the nature of his responses, if he was working for Microsoft, and he insisted that he was working for Microsoft. I told him that I know this is a scam and that I would be contacting the state Attorney General on Monday. The phone number had an Indiana area code, but I suppose that is meaningless. A long time ago when a woman called I told her I don't own a computer. She was completely stumped!

So I was called by this "John" from Windows Tech Support. I didn't get the name of the company at first, so I asked if he was calling from Microsoft. "No, I'm from Wondows Tech Support, an authorized blablabla...". He talked with a foreign accent (most likely Indian) and sounded like he was reading from a script. "John" then told me that my computer has downloaded something that was damaging my computer. He would tell me how to do to get rid of this "problem". I'm not very good with computers and I actually have a smaller problem with Windows on my laptop, but I thought it was very strange that the person calling me was not from Sweden (where I've lived my entire life) and that he knew that I had downloaded something that I wasn't supposed to. Not to mention the phone number started with "001" and had ~7 numbers.

Anyway, I asked him where this "Windows Tech Support" is located. The answer was simple: "The UK". Alright, his name was correct, but his accent was not. There are, however, lots of Indians living there, so it could be possible. I asked for the name of the city. He mumbled something I had to ask 3 times (dingding, warning bell) to understand. Liverpool was apparently what he was trying to say. Give me the address, I responded. He then said I was going to get it later but I needed to follow his instructions...

Well Well Well - I'm from the UK, and I don't even know how they managed to get my landline. Nearly fell for it - Note: the page on How To Geek on such an encounter more or less describes how I fell into the scammers pace.

I was led by the hand to see all these error messages, let them remote access my PC, but when they redirected me to the page to pay for their "license", I got EXTREMELY suspicious since these supposed windows tech support people couldn't even direct me to a website that looked Windows certified, coming up with all the bull that "yea see the icons on the side of the page we are licensed and we are certified". So I told them to call me in half an hour after I speak to my dad regarding the payment and they got immediately frantic, saying don't close the remote access since I wanted to do it. What's even more suspicious was that they went into my history and deleted the last few pages.
Quickly shut down the remote access, but I'm just worried that they may have installed dodgy things onto my PC without knowing. Is it possible for them to do such a thing without it showing on my screen?

Also, just the day before I had another call concerning a PC from a pakistani sounding man and since it was so early in the morning, I pretended whoever it was for wasn't in, and the man began to CHAT WITH ME (I pretended to be 16yrs old, I'm way older really). He was such a creep, asking what I do, where I work, how my voice was sexy. I told him I wanted to put the call down and he went "Why? Why do you want to put the phone down?" I just replied that I wanted to and promptly did so. Creep.

There still at it. I hung after he said windows support. Indian accent. In the future I will tell them I am an Apple user. Guess they don't care I'm on the do-not-call list. Of course, caller id- says private caller and no number. Really sick of scammer, and people like Rachel of card services.

In the past 12 months, I have received at least 10 calls (Phoenix, AZ area) from "Windows Support", and every Asian Indian accent gets thicker with each call.

Microsoft does NOT call you. You have to reach them. Just about all contact with the giant would be in writing through their website, Microsoft.com.

Remember this and pass it on to your friends and family members: If you did NOT initiate the phone call, you DO NOT GIVE out any personal information over the phone! Period. It's a simple rule. All scammers, political solicitors, home improvement cold-callers get the same message. My non-techie husband has been trained and says, "I did not initiate this call. I do not give out any personal information. Take my name and number off your list. Good-bye." People...Keep your Power! Don't give it away. If you do, you might as well give them your first born, keys to your house, your car, and a clean copy of your credit report.

I just fell for this scam yesterday. It all started with a download of Windows 10. Then the pop-ups starting coming. One asked what I thought of my experience. I explained that my computer had been problematic ever since the download. Cue the phone call. Someone else in my home answered, and said Microsoft Tech Support wanted to help me with Windows 10. Not knowing any better, I answered the phone and was told my computer was infected with nearly 1100 viruses, and this man with a thick Indian accent was going to help me. I proceeded to follow his instructions, and I installed TeamViewer. He then demanded $99.99 be transferred via WesternUnion. When I refused, my computer went black. Day 2, I am still trying to repair the damages, and I wondering how much of my information this scammer managed to obtain. Area code 928 is now on watch "George."

My 87 year old father fell for this scam not once, but twice. He is highly intelligent, has a PhD and ran a large organization for many years. Others shouldn't feel too embarrassed or falling for this. It doesn't make you an idiot, perhaps just too trusting of strangers.

It was an incredible hassle to close all of my parent's charge accounts, change bank information, etc. The stress it caused my mother made her ill. The people running these schemes are major assholes.

When I get these calls, I try to play to their conscience. I ask how they can sleep at night knowing they are stealing from people and warn them about the damage they are doing to their own soul. Most remain quiet. One told me it doesn't bother him at all. I hope I am getting to them and they may seek an honest living. I understand that people living in abject poverty can rationalize their actions, especially since they are calling people in wealthy countries, but in truth they are harming themselves.

I think there is more than one outfit running this scam. The other day, I got no fewer than three calls--all spoofed with different numbers between 7AM and 9PM. All sounded Indian/Pakistani. Some were abusive. I'm not worried--I run Linux, but I find the frequent calls annoying.

The FCC claims that these are all VOIP calls with spoofed CIDs and that they can't determine the point of origin. Does anyone else think that that should get fixed?

I got a call today from 'Windows Technical Support' and played along for a while, kept asking him which Company he was calling from and when he said 'Windows Technical Support' I said 'so you're calling from Microsoft then?' ... it went on and on like this and when he said he was calling from a Californian registered Company I told him that no, he was calling from India and that I don't have Windows ... at that point he called me a bitch ...nice!

If I have time I just play along with them. I learned what to do from trying to help my brother with his computer over the phone. For example when they ask what I see at the bottom of my computer I say nothing. They ask what color is the bar. I tell them that it is gray. What I am describing is the bottom of my CPU. Other time when they say Windows, I ask them if they are single hung windows. My challenge is to see if I can get them frustrated.

I'm curious about your warning. When you say that they can get very aggressive, what do you mean by that? Other than being verbally abusive, what could they realistically do? Honestly curious, because I'd love to try some of the things that a_wildo mentioned -- but not if there are repercussions that I had not considered. Thanks.

There are stories of people being targeted by the scammers personally. Nothing solid, but if your phone number is online, it may not take long for them to track you down.

I feel some discretion is advisable.

Anonymous

July 4, 2015 at 4:14 am

I get these calls intermittently. Some are Windows Experts, Publisher Clearing House Winner, ADT alarm system, Time Share Free Steak Dinner, it goes on and on.

One claiming that he was a Windows tech expert and then he said he was going to steal all my money and I will go begging in the street. I asked so which is it you are a tech expert or you're going to steal my money, which is it.....silence, crickets, nothing, dial tone.

Another call the Windows Expert calls and I just begin screaming. I heard him say "Whoooa Whoooa, WHAT'S GOING ON" I then heard someone in the background saying "We can't do anything" and then all I heard was my screams echoing back to me.

The most recent Windows Expert calls and I'm laying down I figured I would just play along, I claimed to press f1 R enter etc etc....I then become board and tell him "My son the computer expert will help me from here on in". Silence, nothing, crickets, dial tone.

These calls are hilarious one guy on You Tube used the Taken Quote "I have a particular set of skills...." I think it is more surprising that they work, but more info, the better

Holy Moly! This just happened in 323 area code. I have never fallen for phishing, but this guy tricked me for a few minutes. No info given out, but when I got suspicious he was going to transfer me to his "tech supervisor" just like the script says! Thanks for the article!

I have provided my spare laptop to my friends dog-grooming shop so they have something better to use than the old relic they had in there. I have it loaded with Kaspersky and have always told them to NEVER open up strange links, spam, scan, pop-ups, etc. and should they accidentally do so, then to close it.

So what does someone do??? Calls a scammer and actually gave him access to the laptop as he was in control of the mouse.

Now, my question.... what exactly happened? And does this guy have future control of the laptop? Should I just wipe it and reinstall Windows? (there's not a lot of programs and they're all open-source, really).

Here are the steps she remembered when she called me AFTER she finally realized it was a scam.

1. On Facebook (imagine that), clicked on a link to view some list that sounded interesting.
2. Window popped up notifying the user that "a virus was detected on your computer" or something similar. And to call 888-751-5163, which she did.

3. Asked who he was - sounded Russian. Kinda said he was with Microsoft, but not really. Of course we all know he wasn't -- I'm just telling all the facts that I gathered.

4. So Mr Russian Scammer asks my friend to do a WINDOWS KEY + R to pull up the Run screen.

5. Then he asks her to enter the numbers: 240177. Apparently those numbers didn't work.

6. Then they try the numbers: 266733, and at that point, he had control of the mouse. (??? HOW???)

That is extremely concerning, Michelle. I would suggest a full refresh if on W8, otherwise reinstall, unless you can identify the tool and remove it. I get the feeling it wouldn't show as malware, only as a small remote access app.

John at 845-842-7115 just called from windows tech support I strung him on as far as to the entering 6 digit code at log me in rescue ... then put him on phone with my son <my geek squad> while i googled for scams cause i figured it was as soon as i heard the accent, my 19 yr old, after trying to make him explain what he was having me do, and why told him off for scamming and hung up on him :)p at least we wasted a little of his time.

I have just, a few minutes ago, been 'stung' by this scam. I thought the call didn't sound right, but Jonathan (the Indian) did a good job of convincing me that they were legit and that it was my operating system that had alerted them to my PC having a 'problem'. Unfortunately I allowed them remote access, and it was only when they told me that I needed to pay £99 for them to 'fix' the error that I smelled a rat. While we were arguing over the fact that I didn't call them for support I wasn't actually watching what was happening on the screen. I noticed a window open and it looked like a password was being set but before I could do or say anything they had 'shut down' my PC and disconnected the phone call. Now I have rebooted and am being asked for a Windows Startup Password.
Does anyone know if I can get my PC back?

They contacted my 79 year old mother just as she sat down to use her new Win8 computer for the first time... Scared the bejeezus out of her! Fortunately, she smelled a rat and asked me to check it out.

We get these calls frequently on my home phone but I seriously just got on of them at 10:48pm at night. I ripped into this woman when she had the audacity to keep reading her script after I pointed out the time.
They have to be stopped.
the number was 989-641-6051

First, I was tempted to do the whole VM thing and waster their time, but I thought of something simpler.

Remember back in the 90s those 900 numbers that were porn/phone sex lines? Yeah, I act like that when they call (i.e., stick it in, your credit card that is). I even put them on hold with random porn music I find on YouTube.

The hilarious part is that they have been calling a lot more. Maybe I can score some money from the scammers!

I'm having a good time with it - highly recommended if you can not try and laugh. It's very hard (no pun intended!).

I would just ask for a random guy like George or Bob or Fred Flinstone and make it sound like he just called me and I was to ask for him and only him and to even throw a tantrum on the phone if they don't listen. lol

I received a call yesterday and I told the guy that I know this is a scam....when I could get a word in edgewise....and he started yelling "how do you know this is a scam?" I told him because I'm smart and hung up. I'm sure this won't stop the calls.

Depending on how much time I have to spare, I use one of two methods to give these scammers a bit of their own medicine. First, I might be tempted to let the call drag on by claiming to be completely stupid and fumbling with fears about my computer, etc. Note, I am never online when I do this, and will usually claim for my computer to be out of reach. But I ask -- please -- for very detailed info so I can follow-up. I figure keeping these jackasses on the phone for 10-15 minutes getting nowhere saves others. My other "method" -- the shorter version -- is to immediately claim that the "problem" was taken care of the day before. This creates all sorts of confusion as they want to know who I spoke with, etc. I'll say that "David" helped me, so how could it possibly be that my "operating system" is again having problems? Obviously, there are more than one of these thieves out there so to imply that one of their competitors got to me first and took my money is very satisfying. Yes, like others, I've had calls end up with profanity-laced retorts. By then you know you've successfully screwed-up their intentions and caused a huge waste of time!

When a scammer calls me to tell me that my computer has been downloading malware I tell them I am seeing error messages on my screen right now. Then I say "oh, this message is for you" and then I give him the worst insult I can think of. Since hundreds of millions of Indians still defecate in the street, I suggest that it is time for him to do that now.

5-6-15 just hot call from 202/223-3212 today, caller ID america soc of mec??
Said he was from windows technical dept. my computer is downloading infections, I need to turn on right away to remove, or my computer will be blocked!!! I said I had an emergency and asked for a call back number, which he gave 786/224-0406 which they answer as windows technical dept. I called from a diff phone and hung up, they called back twice immediately. The first number on caller Id rings no answer. I want to know how to report these numbers?!

I kept getting calls whilst I was trying to feed or look after my 5month old daughter. I work from home on a full time basis and need my computer to work. John Morris told me it would cost me £99.99 to cover my computer for 2 yrs and I told him how on earth can I afford that with a young baby?! He said my computer will crash in 24hrs due to 6 or 7 known hackers trying to get into my computer. I asked him for a number to call him on as I told him he was holding me ransom. he gave me 01844700022. I haven't tried to call this number as I really can't be bothered.
I have done a full scan of my computer with the software I use and they have reported no threats. I have emailed the company I use for them to give me some peace of mind that this was all just a scam.
After reading some comments on here I can now feel a little safer knowing it was a scam. I even asked them where they got my landline number because I have never given this out to anyone to which they responded saying because of the threats on windows they found my number!

The first time I got this spam call I explained that I only have Macs (wife is in charge of purchases and it makes no difference for my use) and tried to ask the caller to repeat where he was calling from, to which he responded something along the lines of "F you, stop wasting my time" (as if I had called him...).

Since then I've been getting these calls pretty frequently, 2-3 times in a day before I get around to blocking the number from my phone. 44 times since 1/1/15, per review of my cellphone call logs. A few of the numbers have been "real" phone numbers (or at least look like a real phone number) but the last several have been 5 digits or fewer (as few as 2 digits), with the last caller to have an "unavailable" number (so I'm not sure what will happen if I try to block it).

I've tried asking politely to stop calling and take my number off whatever list it is on, or similar. I've also reported the "real" numbers to the FTC as I'm supposed to be on the do not call registry, but that seems like a waste of my time. I'm waiting for the day when I actually get one of these calls when I'm in the car by myself so I can just let rip with an expletive scream directly into their earpiece. I hope I hit a volume and pitch that makes their ears bleed. Till that opportunity comes, I'm just ignoring all calls from numbers I don't recognize.

Got a "from Windows" call today with a guy with a very thick Indian/Pakistani accent who had my last name. Got him to confirm he was calling from India or Pakistan. He had no phone number for me to call back to confirm the problem, and my caller ID had no number showing. He wanted me to go online and then he would call me back to fix my Windows problem. I yelled "absolutely not, you will not have access to my computer, and you must be one of those offshore hackers!" Then I hung up on him. Hope he never calls again but I am really ready now after reading the constructive comments above. I will try the "Jesus approach" next time and string him along or put the phone up to my squawking cockatoo and let him blast his eardrums.

By the way, I started to get harassing cell phone calls the day after the scam. They were probably really annoyed to lose the $175.00. He said "Hello, is this Miss Mary ... " in an Indian accent and started saying something about what happened yesterday. I told him that I looked things up and know they are a bunch of frauds and that I never wanted them to call me again. As I was hanging up I could hear him yelling. Fortunately, my AT&T cell phone allows me to make a list of calls to refuse. So far, they have tried to contact me on two numbers. I reported everything about the scam to the Federal Trade Commission where I was told that I might also want to report it to my state Attorney General which I will. I hope they can knock some of these jackwagons out of business.

Last Thursday [23-Aor02015] I have been hit by this scam. They took over the control for my system for few minutes and I force shut down the laptop before they try to do something. Now I kept my laptop without internet by disabling WiFi and Network / LAN Adpaters.

Even though my laptop is not corrupted and I have not lost any money, I want to know if they would have copied any data from my system. Is it possible to get some logs to get this information? I am ready to format my system but I want to know if they would have copied any data from my laptop before I am formatting it.

Muthu, it's *unlikely* that they were able to copy anything unless they were browsing your file system. The remote system these types usually use doesn't allow them to browse anything without you seeing anything.

This isn't a definitive answer, please understand, as there can be no certainty without having the full facts, and only the scammers have those.

Next to all of you prudent geniuses I feel like a big dope. I got the "call" after I came home from culinary school (5 hours on my feet... and I have had 4 spin surgeries) and I was tired and spent. He knew too much, and I had my new computer fail a couple of months ago because of some weird thing with the motherboard which the technician had not been able to explain--so when this "technician" described how my computer had acted right before and as it crashed, I started to think he was legit. I cannot believe that I fell for it and let him take control of the computer. I even fell for his line that because my registration has expired I wouldn't be able to log on if they didn't do their work on the computer. I paid $175 (and Bank of America declined it, but being too worried about not having computer access, I told them it was OK). Anyway, I got more and more annoyed (especially with "James Anderson" with the Indian or Pakistani accent). I started laying into them with, "why should I believe you when you cold called me" and "now you're telling me you expect me to pay money", and "I think you guys are a bunch of frauds", etc. and finally they told me to stop yelling and that I was "rude". Oh man. Well, after 45 minutes of us haranguing each other, they started the scan and told me not to touch my computer for 30 to 45 mins. I called my bank right away and cancelled my debit card and asked them to stop the transfer of money (evidence at the bank shows that the $175 never went to the villians). And I called MicroCenter right after that, and the technician told me to cut power on the computer and bring it in which I did. He said they had been getting other calls. Bottom line--I hope to get a fully healthy computer back and I may get some protection software that is a little more Offense than Defense. Suggestions are welcome.

I normally spin these guys out for about 10 mins or so and then claim to have an 'error message', which I'm struggling to read but it looks like T-H-I-S-I-S-A-S-C-A-M. When the penny doesn't drop I pretend to read it out with difficulty and then ask what they think it might mean. One guy said he didn't know. "Go on!" I said "Have a guess! Why do you think my computer is saying 'This is a scam'?" Another told me off for wasting his time. "Of course I'm going to waste your time!" I replied "You're a criminal: what do you expect me to do?!". He didn't seem to see the funny side.

Having been apparently the only person in the world who had never had this call before yesterday, [even my elderly mother who doesn't own a computer has had the call] South Asia calls again today. This time, no mention of Windows, just a man from "Your computer technical department." As he goes through his shpiel, he suddenly grows suspicious of my amiably encouraging mmhms. "Are you playing with me?" he asks sharply. Can't hear you, it's very noisy, I say. He reconsiders. "You are very sweet ma'am.When browsing the internet your computer downloaded an unwanted file. Are you aware of that?" Yes, I say pleasantly. "But if you don't fix it, this unwanted file may cause you to lose all your files." "No, I say beatifically, I am happy with that file, no file is unwanted, all are welcome," Nice talking to you ma'am..click". Same Detroit number as yesterday.

I got a call to my cellphone this morning. As soon as I heard what it was about I knew it was this scam, but I was bored so I played along lol
When Nigel first mentioned the infection I went into "a panic attack" I told him I was scared for my health and asked if I should book a doctor appointment to see if I catched something from my computer Lmao! He told me to go ahead and book the doctor lol, we continued the call and he told me to look for my Ctrl key, I told him I didn't have one I just had my house, car and mailbox keys. He got frustrated and he said to look on my computer so I went and "turned on" my computer (I was actually feeding my baby) and again "panicked" because my screen said virus he said he would fix it I had to "restart" my computer so I asked him his name and age and told him about "myself" when it was "back on" I went for the Lysol wipes because it said virus again and I didn't want to get sick haha haha after this he finally hung up on me. I kept him on the line for about 15 minutes just wa sting his time. I hope they call again :)

I just had a call here in the UK that went as follows: (Asian subcontinent accent)
Hullo ma'am, this is Windows technical calling..." I cut him short: "I have never used Windows, ever." He insistent: "No, listen to me, ma'am I am telling you I am calling from Windows technical and your computer has sent us an error message." Me: "How can my computer send you anything? I have never ever used Windows." Puzzled silence. "You don't use Windows?" Me: "No, not at all". He: "What you use, then?" Me: That is my business, not yours. He: *click*.
[like you, I use Linux Mint)
To my surprise there was a number recorded, when I checked 1471:
001 248 375 1780, which on checking, I find is Detroit.

After they tell me who they are I usually ask them when its obvious an America name, with and accent, which branch do they reprsent.. al queda, isis, taliban, hamas, etc.

Im so glad you called. Let me ask you, which is the best way to kill an infidel? Do you prefer beheading or blowing them to bits? By this time they start to get upset and mad. Then I tell them to connect me to their supervisor...that would be osama bin laden, right? Either they start swearing and I hang up, or they hang up. Works for me either way.

But my real fun is when an American telemarketer calls. Trying to sell you something....they get an earful of the most graphic sexual come ons on the planet, and if its a male, its even more fun...then they hang up. How rude..call me just to hang up on me.

I've had these scammers call me twice last year and again yesterday morning. I act ignorant to them and have fun playing with them. They must of been so fed up with me yesterday that they
actually put the phone down on me. I took note of the number they called from. It was...... 005164 536 886.

Unfortunately, I was scammed - and this is why. I purchased a computer two weeks ago, and somehow the scammer knew that, and my name. They had me check several files on my computer which seemed to indicate that my Windows hadn't been activated. They just had me type in a few things and they were telling me that it wasn't a big deal - that computer companies sometimes don't activate Windows before sending them and they could help me. The next thing I knew I could see my mouse moving, and I said "I did not give you permission to access my computer". She said she was just making it easier for me. The mouse movement stopped and she said that she needed to know if I wanted to purchase a 5 or 10 year license. Only then did I realize I was being scammed. I quickly shut down my computer, my other two computers, and I went downstairs and unplugged the router. I left the router unplugged all night so access could not be gained again, and I got up this morning and did a full system restore on the computer in which the person gained access.

I do not get scammed easily. This person knew my legal name - which of course I use when making purchases - and she also knew that I had just recently purchased a computer with Windows 7. My legal name is not listed anywhere - even our local phone directory only uses the first initial of my nickname. I feel as if the scammers somehow got my information from the company where I recently purchased the computer.

She never asked me for credit card information - I hung up before she got that far - but she did access my computer which is scary enough.

I feel like a fool. I know better than this, but it all sounded so completely legit until I saw my mouse moving.

I've gotten many many hundreds of intrusive and by now, exceptionally annoying phone calls like this and from "pharmacy companies" that are obviously ethic less scammers from India. I've made dozens of reports to The FTC, the Do Not Call Registry and even contacted my United States Senator. I've also tried calling The Indian Embassy in Washington DC at 202-939-7000 to see if they could help.

I got a call today from window support warning me that I had a virus on my computer, that it was going to crash but he was going to help me fix it. I said that's ok if it crashes I'll just by a new computer. He said you got lot of money? I said sure lol.

I was just called by a man with an British accent. I found your web site while I was talking to him. He asked me to close all my open windows. When I grew bored with playing dumb, I read him the starting material at the top of this page. He was not happy and broke the connection.
One of my friends tumbled for this a few weeks ago and was crestfallen when I told him it was a scam and he was going to have to change all his passwords, just in case.
I watch the video - it is wonderful. I laughed and laughed.
I am so happy you are doing this public service for all of us. I warn my friends, but they still may be vulnerable.
Thanks loads and loads!

Just got a call this morning from "Steve Smith" from "PC World" who definitely has an accent and was annoyingly persistent. He asked me to click the Windows key and R Key to solve some issues that I wasn't seeing on my computer.

I told him I'd call him back...the number is "631.355.4488" just in case anybody gets the shady call!

Happened to me tonight. 10pm, and by my book, a 10 pm phone call is an emergency. I knew when I got to my phone a call from 3001 showing "Greece", was suspect. I don't know anyone in Greece. I listened, she bossed as I told her, on speaker phone, she was being recorded.

Glad I followed my gut, and hung up after pissing her off not playing into it.

I had one of these calls a while ago, just after windows 8 came in, from an Engligh named person with foreign Accent. When I asked him which computer (as we had several in the house at the time) he was able to give me the computer id number and windows 8 reg no of my computer - I'd only just updated my new laptop to windows 8. He went through certain aspects of the computer telling me I had 'hidden' problems then passed me to a more serious 'operator' and tried to get me to alter things (but I didn't), in the end I explained we were having tea so I was in a hurry. He then informed me that my computer security should be more important and if anything goes wrong with my windows 8 package it wouldn't be covered unless I went along with him! He was pretty unpleasant at that stage and I hung up on him. Just to be on the safe side I whipped my computer off charge and took it (still running) to pc world - where I bought it - and got them to check it. They confirmed the page he'd asked me to get up showing the problems was the conflicts page. They were happy enough to check it but confirmed it was a scam the minute I told him 'my story'.

I had a similar call last week. First time he called, I told him I needed to turn on my computer. Put him on hold and went about my business. He called back 5 min later and I asked why he hung up on me! Then it took another 5 min. for my computer to boot up. He kept asking if it was ready yet, and I told him I still had an hourglass. He was quite impatient, muttering "oh my god" the whole time. Finally, I decided to move forward, so I said my PC was ready to go. Then he asked if I could locate the Windows key on my keyboard. Well, wouldn't you know, my keyboard doesn't have a Windows key. "What's the key to the right of CTRL?" "It says ALT." "OK, what key is to the right of that?" "The Space Bar". "Oh my god..." I told him I must have a really old computer and he should send me a new one, but I don't think it will be coming. Finally, he gave up, we exchanged F-bombs, and both hung up. Haven't heard from him since.

Recvd a call at 9:30 at night, asked for supervisor, no surprise they hung up. Another time I lied and told the guy I had multiple computers and he said the problem was with the phone line and I only needed to be at a computer, any computer, and he needed permission to take over my computer. I blew up said no way only when I call someone and hung up on him and immediately unplugged everything. That way neighbors can't use my router either. Trying to think of new lie for next time.

Please be warned this is still going on, I am just very pleased it was me taking the call not my mum as I am sure she would have fallen for it as she isn't very confident with the computer. I basically just told the guy 'this is bullshit' and he put the phone down.

Happened to me this morning AGAIN! Second time in 3 days. I'm inspired by those that have messed with them so I did it too. Played along for 15 minutes (off for Presidents Day so hey I'm game) before telling Mike I knew what was up and am a computer forensics examiner. He got PISSED and started telling me how he had sex with my wife and daughter. I asked him what it was like to have sex with a goat and then told him I not only never turned on a computer but I own Mac products! He cussed me more before I insulted Islam and Vishnu (just for good measure) and he hung up. Great fun. Going to do it again

I have had these scammers call me on 4 separate occasions. It's fun. For the first time in your life you can talk one-on-one with a criminal who is trying to steal your money. Any language goes. I insult their mother, their country, call them losers and parasites and include as many expletives as possible. I had one of them listen to me for over a minute. I got one of them to go off-script and threaten to shut down my computer. Its great entertainment.

I blocked their calls which basically means the caller receives a busy signal. Then the calls come in every hour. I finally answered the phone and told them I didn't have a computer. The calls stopped.

I got a spate of these calls and finally decided one day to find out what the scam was. I was running Windows in a VM and had nothing to lose. I played dumb and got passed around 3 operators. In total I managed to keep them on the line for 45 minutes, eventually they realised that I was winding them up and I got a "You f*ck off! F*ck off!" and they slammed the phone down on me. It was most satisfying.

Bravo to all who took these scammers for a ride.
Last year I got one of these calls. It took me a while to figure out it was a scam because I had recently asked for some tech support. At first the call seemed legit because the "Windows technician" seemed to know some personal information about me and my laptop. I woke up when the guy asked for credit card information because there was a fee for his "specialized tech support services." When I disconnected his remote access and began asking some questions about internet fraud, they guy hung up and never called back.
I don't spend a lot of time browsing on the web. Personal privacy concerns make me leery of using social media, online banking and online shopping. I don't use online access to my health care information.
After this experience I felt victimized and wondered if I had been targeted because of my age. When a cursory check on the internet revealed this scam has been around for years, I also felt rather stupid.
After I freaked out, I got a grip, ran my security software and reset my passwords. I was glad that was all it took to close the book.

Got one of those today at 7AM my time. Rachael's English was a bit sketchy. She asked me if my computer was a laptop or a computer. I kept asked her where I should send my broken computer so she could fix it and could she tell me how to turn my computer on. I kept it going for a 10 minutes until I got bored.

All those who "play these scammers along" are victims too.
Just do the maths. They are calling from low-cost economies where the daily rate of pay is a few dollars (e.g. India - per capita GDP around $1500 a year). How does that compare with your pay rate? Wasting their time costs them pennies and costs you dollars: who's the mug?

Responding in any way is just the same as writing back to the guys who send you spam email. 15-20 years ago some people did just that but soon found it was counter productive, the result was often that you would be targeted even more.

A successful scam will charge maybe 2 or 3 hundred dollars to "fix your problem" and install "security software" on your PC. You just handed a crook your credit card details, do you think they'll use it responsibly? And of course that security software they provided is a trojan allowing them to install key loggers, sell access to our PC as part of a botnet, explore your files, spam your email contacts etc...

Overall one "success" can earn them as much money as they would otherwise earn in ten years. Do you think that if you waste 10 minutes of their time that will make them stop?

My response is that if I hear an Indian accent on the phone I put it straight back down. As for those "legitimate" organisations that off-shore their call centres: well you made a choice to save yourselves money, you have also chosen to accept the side effect that I'll be ignoring your calls.
I'm sorry if you are Indian but that's the deal. If you don't like it get your governments to regulate and prosecute the crooks.

I'm in the UK and have had 4 or 5 of these calls myself and known friends who have been similarly àpproached even down to the anglicised name for someone with an Indian accent.
Like the author I run a Linux system and also a Chromebook.
I usually manage to keep these people on the line for 15 minutes or so with my ham-fisted attempts to follow their instructions including the daftest questions I can think of at the time.
I figure the longer they are dealing with me the less they are dealing with possible victims.

I got a call , he told me that my computer was infected and that it was sending information over the internet without me knowing it, he told me to go my computer and open my browser, so I said yes, I told him to wait for my computer to boot, he was very polite, we talk for about five minutes, that is when I turned my computer on and he heard the Windows sound, after another five minutes, I told him that it was ready, he said " go to Internet Explorer and blah blah......" I told him that I only see something that said, Netzero, after a while he said, "just get to the internet" and that is when I told him, "I'm sorry, I never had internet access, but if you wait I can go to the Library and I can connect from there" , and he hang up. :-(

How and where do these miscreants obtain the phone numbers they call? How do they know that the owner of the number called even has a computer? It seems I'm missing all the fun of baiting these turkeys. They never call me. :-( But then, for the past year or so I have been using NoMoRobo service to block any robocalls. Also I always check the Caller ID and never answer the phone if I do not recognize the number.

They don't, its just a series of cold calls from purchased lists (thanks DMV & state entities, CC apps and other businesses that 'need' a local phone number).

When I get a call like that, I ask them for a ISP or URL ID where the 'issue' has shown up. The answer is usually a city 300+ miles away. Their next question is generally "Why do you want to know?" [que up fiendish, ominous music] The fun begins... They are asked for what at face value would be legitimate info about time, date, frequency of issues etc. as I'm taking notes to turn into the [local] county Sheriffs Office and the State A.G. Cyber Crimes units, as this is part of an ongoing computer theft investigation. They occasionally try to return to their script, but I press on with he line of questions. Generally, when they hear 'theft' 'investigation' 'cyber crimes' 'State A.G.' they're gone.

I've heard of them calling people who don't have computers, Dragonmouth, so it seems likely that they just go through the phone book. They're nearly all landline calls too, which rules out - for many - numbers being "harvested" as I believe most people submit their mobile numbers for online forms.

I spin out their calls as long as possible - pretending to be a duffer until I get bored then I tell them I'm a MCSE working for Interpol investigating internet fraud on detachment from the UK Security Services. You've never heard a phone line go dead so fast! A colleague always offers to go along with them but only if he can talk to the operator first "About Jesus". It has the same effect.

What I do. I can put on a very good UK regionalised English accent. Somerset... and they just cannot understand what I am saying. I had my listening friends in fits of laughter. The scammers just gave up on me. Mr. Mike

I can't believe I haven't been called by these goons yet. I always love reading stories of people messing with them, though. Any time that you waste of theirs is probably saving someone else from being victimized.

I had such a call 2 days ago and 'played with them' while, of course, not following their instructions - I just wanted to know their latest tactics. I hung up in boredom after 10-15 mins, but they immediately phoned me back, so I said why are you interested in my computer, they replied 'I am a Microsoft certified engineer, its my job.' I said 'really?' They said 'what do you think my job is'. BIG MISTAKE. I said ' I think you are a con-man' and hung up again. They didn't ring back!

I got a number of calls from these people in the last few months, sometimes twice a day. We run Macs exclusively here so when they told me they detected a problem in my Windows operating system, it was pretty clear what was going on.